Cancer Care As It Should Be

spring 2012

Duke Cancer Center Opens A New Era in Cancer Treatment Begins

n February 27, a new era in cancer treat- in a health care setting. Patients and families a private room or in semi-private areas if they Oment at Duke began with the official can enjoy a meal or snack in the Café, select prefer to socialize. Weather permitting—and opening of the Duke Cancer Center. wigs and turbans in the Belk Boutique, peruse based upon their treatment regimen—patients The opening marks the culmination of years articles and use computers in the Resource can even receive their treatment outdoors in the of planning and two years of construction, and Center, fill prescriptions in the Pharmacy, or rooftop Bernstein Family Garden. is the result of the hard work and contributions spend time reflecting and recharging in the “Patients come to Duke from across the state, of hundreds of patients, physicians, nurses, and Quiet Room. And that’s just on the main level. around the country—and even around the staff who helped design the new building by The remaining six floors have been designed world—for the most compassionate, advanced providing input and suggestions. to facilitate the Duke Cancer Institute’s (DCI) care, and we are committed to delivering that “This building has been built with our commitment to providing the most advanced level of care. That includes offering clinical patients in mind,” says Kevin Sowers, RN, care in a comfortable, healing environment. trials, often not available in other centers, that MSN, FAAN, president of Duke University The new facility is organized to promote provide new treatment options for patients,” Hospital. “We sought their input every step of multidisciplinary care, allowing patients to see Kastan adds. “This new Cancer Center will the way, and we think they will be pleased with their team of specialists—medical oncologist, optimize the very essence of the Duke Cancer the results.” radiation oncologist, surgical oncologist, and Institute model by providing an environment In response to patient requests, the new other providers—all during one appointment designed to integrate care and research in Cancer Center feels less like a hospital and more and in one exam room. Few cancer centers order to accelerate the translation of research like a home. Large windows provide ample offer this type of multidisciplinary care in a discoveries into the most advanced clinical care natural light, and a fireplace and comfortable single clinic. Imaging, radiation oncology, and for patients.” chairs in the spacious Joan and Bob Tisch & infusion are also located in the building to offer Family Atrium and throughout the building convenience to patients needing those services. A Week of Grand Opening Activities add warmth and comfort not usually found “At the Duke Cancer Institute, we believe During the week of February 20, the DCI hosted that the multidisciplinary approach is the best a week’s worth of open houses and activities for way to treat patients,” says Michael Kastan, patients and families, faculty and staff, commu- DCI Launches New Web site MD, PhD, executive director of the DCI. “The nity members, and philanthropists to celebrate new building helps facilitate this type of care the opening of the Duke Cancer Center. dukecancerinstitute.org and makes the experience more convenient The festivities included a Scientific Symposium, hosted by Kastan, featuring Duke Cancer Visit our new Web site to learn for patients and easier for our physicians to what sets the Duke Cancer communicate with one another and plan the Institute researchers Sally Kornbluth, PhD; David Institute apart: best care for each patient.” Kirsch, MD, PhD; Kimberly Blackwell, MD; and  Duke Cancer Institute Lee Jones, PhD, followed by the Chancellor’s physicians and other Smartphone users: For the nearly 120 patients who receive care providers Scan this image to chemotherapy at Duke each day, the new Cancer Lecture, hosted by Victor Dzau, MD, chancellor go directly to the  Treatment options for health affairs, Duke University, featuring new site. You will Center provides a more patient-friendly envi-  nationally renowned cancer researcher Charles Clinical trials need a free QR ronment and more options. The entire fourth  New and innovative research code app. floor of the new building is devoted to infusion, Sawyers, MD, of Memorial Sloan-Kettering  Support services for Cancer Center. patients and families and patients can choose to receive treatment in  Scheduling an appointment Continued on page 2  And more Jonathan Tisch, chairman, Loews Hotels

Cancer survivor Sabrina Lewandowski From left: Monte D. Brown, MD, vice president for administration, Duke University Health System; William J. Fulkerson Jr., MD, executive along with her husband Gregory and vice president, Duke University Health System; Michael Page, chairman, Durham County Board of Commissioners; Nancy Andrews, their daughter Layla MD, PhD, dean, Duke University School of Medicine; Thomas M. Gorrie, PhD, chair, Duke University Health System Board of Directors; Jonathan Tisch, chairman, Loews Hotels; Victor J. Dzau, MD, chancellor for health affairs, Duke University; Bev Perdue, governor, North Carolina; Michael Kastan, MD, PhD, executive director, Duke Cancer Institute; Richard H. Brodhead, PhD, president, Duke University; Kevin Sowers, RN, MSN, president, Duke University Hospital; Claire Weinberg, cancer survivor; Michael Fields, chair, Duke Cancer Institute Board of Overseers

Cancer survivor Claire Weinberg Michael Kastan, MD, PhD, executive director, Duke Deborah Page, human resources director, with Sammy Arthur Cancer Institute; Victor Dzau, MD, chancellor for Duke University Hospital; Alison Andre, health affairs, Duke University; Charles Sawyers, division administrator, gastroenterology; MD, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; and and Carolyn Carpenter, MHA, FACHE, Ralph Snyderman, MD, chancellor emeritus for Kevin Sowers, RN, MSN, president, Duke administrator and associate dean, Duke health affairs, Duke University University Hospital and Jane Shingleton, Cancer Institute wife of the late William Shingleton, MD, grand opening first director of the Duke Comprehensive Continued from page 1 Cancer Center

At the dedication and ribbon-cutting “My doctors at the Preston Robert Tisch Almost all cancer services at the main campus ceremony on February 23, honored guest North Brain Tumor Center at Duke gave me three are located in the Duke Cancer Center. Carolina Governor Bev Perdue stated, “The priceless gifts when I was diagnosed with a Pediatric patients will still be treated at Duke Cancer Institute and this Cancer Center brain tumor in 2002,” Lewandowski told a Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center. make us all incredibly proud to be a small part group of more than 300. “The first gift was The Adult Blood and Marrow Transplant of this partnership that you have with us and hope, and the second was access to the ground- Program will remain at North Pavilion. the people of this state.” breaking research efforts at Duke that are The events also included remarks from current and advanced beyond measure. Duke University, Duke Medicine, and Duke “The third gift was my daughter,” continued Cancer Institute leadership including Richard Lewandowski, as her husband Gregory came Brodhead, PhD, president of Duke University; from around the corner with the couple’s first Notes is produced two times a year by William J. Fulkerson, Jr., MD, executive vice child, born just 11 days earlier and almost 10 Duke Cancer Institute president of Duke University Health System; years to the day since she was first diagnosed. DUMC 3687, Durham, NC 27710 Phone: 919-684-3560 Mary Ann Fuchs, RN, DNP, DSN, chief nursing “For me to be able to create a new life after E-mail: [email protected] and patient care services officer for Duke fighting for my own is truly a miracle.” Karen Cochran University Health System; Joseph Moore, “Every effort has been made at Duke to Executive Director of Development MD, medical director of Duke Raleigh Cancer provide our patients with the most advanced Phone: 919-385-3122 Center; Carolyn Carpenter, MHA, FACHE, and compassionate care and to ensure they Jill Boy Executive Editor administrator and associate dean, Duke receive that care as efficiently and effectively as Cancer Institute; Jim Rawlings, D.Min, Duke possible. For the first time in our history, we are David Elstein Editor/Writer University Medical Center Pastoral Services; now able to align a vast array of cancer services Laura Ertel Writer Dzau; Sowers; and Kastan. in this beautiful state-of-the-art facility,” says Duke University Photography Photography The events also featured heartwarming Dzau. “Most importantly, with the creation If you would like to remove your name stories from cancer survivors including Sabrina of the Duke Cancer Institute and the opening from the mailing list or are receiving Lewandowski, Jamie Valvano Howard, and of this new Cancer Center, we can continue to duplicate copies, please send an email to [email protected] Claire Weinberg, who told of their experiences provide each and every patient with best-in- or through U.S. mail to the address above. with cancer and the care they received from class care that is rightfully expected of Duke Produced by the Office of Marketing and Creative Duke physicians and care teams. now and in the future.” Services © 2012 Duke University Health System MCOC 9434 notes

Healing Path New Center Designed With Patients’ Emotional Well-Being in Mind n planning the new Cancer Center, Duke Survivorship. “In our focus groups, patients asked When construction of the Duke Medicine ICancer Institute leaders wanted to make sure for as much natural light as possible—and you can Pavilion next door is completed in 2013, a two- that the new facility would be a place of comfort, see the large windows in the atrium as a result.” acre park in front of the Cancer Center—including peace, and hope. Patients had input in the design As visitors enter the five-story, light-filled atrium, the Garden of Tranquility—will offer a comfort- process—and the result is a center that provides as they are greeted by a central fireplace that adds able, tree-lined venue for patients, family, and much for the emotional well-being of patients as warmth and a homey touch. The atrium looks friends to relax, reenergize, or regroup. for their medical and surgical needs. down on spiraling artwork known as the Healing Even the artwork in the new Cancer Center, all “At Duke I was lucky to have a great team of Path, which is filled with inspirational quotes from of which is the work of North Carolina artists, doctors and nurses treat me,” says Sally Goin, a patients and friends. was carefully chosen to help patients heal. “Our four-year survivor of breast cancer. “But, cancer Just past the main entrance is the Quiet Room, goal was for every aspect of the building to treatment is more than drugs and radiation to a calm space where patients and family members complement the wonderful work of our health treat the cancer; there are the emotional and spiri- can get away for personal reflection, or to partici- care providers and staff,” explains Kevin Sowers, tual aspects of cancer that need to be treated too. pate in relaxation programs. RN, MSN, FAAN, president of Duke University At Duke, I thought they did a great job of treating “One comment we heard clearly in focus groups Hospital. “The sculptures, paintings, photographs these needs. I know that with the new Cancer with patients and staff was that they wanted and other artwork on display help create an Center, the patients’ needs always come first.” outdoor views,” says Tracy Gosselin, RN, MSN, environment that reduces stress and provides “In designing the Cancer Center facility, we AOCN, assistant vice president and associate emotional support for our patients, their families, have looked for and identified opportunities chief nursing officer for oncology. “Research visitors, and staff.” everywhere, big and small, to improve the experi- suggests that in a health care setting, a view of “While the treatments our physicians and care ence for our patients and their loved ones,” says the outdoors—especially of trees and greenery— teams provide are very important for addressing Carolyn Carpenter, MHA, FACHE, administrator reduces stress.” the patient’s physical needs, it’s equally important and associate dean of the Duke Cancer Institute. On beautiful North Carolina days, visitors to address the emotional and spiritual needs “The Duke Cancer Center was designed to heal can take a break outside in the Bernstein Family of our patients,” says Cheyenne Corbett, PhD, the ‘whole person,’ with elements that our patients Garden on level four. Weather permitting—and LMFT, director, Duke Cancer Patient Support told us they wanted,” says Tina Piccirilli, LRT, based upon their treatment regimen—patients Program. “There are so many aspects of the new CTRS, director of the Duke Center for Cancer can even receive their treatment in the garden. building that allow us to provide the best whole- person care.”

Patient Coordinators Help New Patients Navigate Treatment nce the diagnosis of cancer sinks in, a for new patients. Today these coordinators In addition to scheduling appointments, Opatient’s mind begins to race with ques- support patients with prostate cancer, sarcoma, coordinators determine what records, x-rays, tions. What types of doctors do I need to see? and brain tumors. Patient coordinators will and other items are needed for the first appoint- What kinds of treatments will I need? What do soon be available for all cancers. ment and work with referring physicians’ offices I need to bring to my appointments? What types “We know that this can be an overwhelming or the patients themselves to obtain them. “It is of support are available to me and my family? time for our patients and their families,” says our job to make it easy for the patients,” says To answer these questions and help new Deborah Jackson, manager of the patient Stephanie Pinnell, the patient coordinator for patients and their families navigate through their coordinator program. “We are here as a sort of the urologic cancer clinic. “We provide one first appointments, the Duke Cancer Institute ‘concierge,’ to listen and understand each new point of contact, answering any questions and now offers the support of patient coordinators patient’s needs and to help them through their providing a sounding board for new patients new patient appointment process.” and their families. We help them through that Because each coordinator focuses on a specific daunting first appointment, and then we are type of cancer, he or she knows the ins and outs here if they need help throughout their journey.” of care for that disease and the Duke physicians Coordinators also provide a single point of and care teams who specialize in treating that contact for referring physicians who want to cancer. The coordinators guide patients through refer a patient to Duke. Duke’s multidisciplinary approach to care, “Since our coordinators focus on a specific scheduling initial appointments with a medical cancer, they understand exactly which appoint- oncologist, surgical oncologist, and/or radiation ments a new patient needs and what files and oncologist during one visit so there is a coor- charts are required,” says Craig Johnson, MHA, dinated approach to developing the patient’s administrative director for Oncology Access treatment plan. Services. “They are the one contact that patients The new Duke Cancer Center building and referring physicians need to handle the improves the patient experience, notes Jackson. logistics of the patient’s first appointment.” Now, specialists are located close to one another to promote collaboration and enhance conve- Patients wishing to speak to a new patient nience for the patients. coordinator should call 919-668-6688. Patient coordinators can also help those patients who are coming to Duke for a second opinion or to see a specific type of specialist by identifying the most appropriate provider for them to meet. Patient coordinators Kristi Wuellner, Stephanie Pinnell, and manager Deborah Jackson (center)

dukecancerinstitute.org | DUKE CANCER INSTITUTE NOTES · 3 First Impressions Anna Watson Blair, a Duke patient since December, finds much to like during her first visit to the new building

ver the course of four days in progress, and just before Christmas moved back more efficient the layout of the building is. And O December 2011, Anna Watson Blair’s home, where she received support from her the architecture is gorgeous. It is clear that a lot of life was turned upside down. Just a week “village of care” composed of her sister, brothers, thought went into the building’s design.” parents, nieces, and friends. Lab work complete, Blair took the elevator to after Thanksgiving, the nurse and single After surgery, Blair underwent daily radiation Clinic 3-1: The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor mother of three started feeling dizzy and treatment for six weeks under the direction of Center. The distance between the clinics and labs off-balance. In early December, she had a radiation oncologist John Kirkpatrick, MD, PhD. is much shorter in the new building, she noted. car accident and knew something wasn’t She is also taking part in a novel phase I trial On the third floor, Blair was welcomed by right, so she made an appointment with that is studying the combination of radiation, several staff members, who explained that— her family physician for the following the FDA-approved drug temozolomide, and an thanks to the pager she was given when she first morning. The doctor was concerned, and experimental drug, under the direction of neuro- registered at the lab—she could actually check in oncologist Annick Desjardins, MD. for her clinic appointment using a nearby kiosk, arranged an immediate MRI. Just five “We believe in a multi-disciplinary approach to and then relax in the Café, Resource Center, or hours later, on December 2, Blair was care,” explains Kirkpatrick, “with the surgeon, anywhere else in the building until the clinic back in her doctor’s office, where she neuro-oncologist, radiation oncologist, and paged her. received the harrowing news: she had many other specialists working together to Blair and Strachan had a cup of tea provided by a brain tumor. develop and implement the best treatment for a volunteer and enjoyed the view of the courtyard “My doctor gave me a choice but recommended each individual patient.” that is now under construction in front of the I go to Duke,” Blair recalls of that overwhelming As the new Duke Cancer Center opened, Blair building until she was paged for her appointment. day. “I wanted to go to Duke, too.” was still making regular visits to see Desjardins “This is so nice,” Blair laughed as she entered Friends helped make arrangements, and by and Kirkpatrick to monitor her condition and the exam room. “The windows in the room are Saturday, Blair was admitted to Duke University determine what, if any, additional treatment will wonderful. It’s a gorgeous view.” Hospital for surgery to remove the tumor. be needed. After her appointment, Blair and Strachan On Monday morning, Allan Friedman, MD, stopped by the Resource Center to borrow a co-deputy director of the Preston Robert Tisch ‘It’s so beautiful and comfortable’ meditation CD and picked up a new scarf at the Brain Tumor Center, removed the brain tumor. “I Blair’s first visit to the new Cancer Center came Belk Boutique, which are located on the main was very confident I was in the right place,” she on February 29, two days after the new building floor across from the Quiet Room. “I have never says. “Duke has a lot of resources to help me cope officially opened to patients. She arrived accom- heard of a quiet room in a cancer center,” she with my situation.” panied by her friend Fiona Strachan, who came says. “It provides a good feeling during such an After a week at Duke, Blair moved to Durham from Australia to help her during her treatment overwhelming time. I’ll definitely spend time here Regional Hospital (part of Duke University and recovery. Their first stop was for laboratory again.” She was also touched by the quotes on the Health System) for rehabilitation, where she spent tests and a medical check-in. As she sat in the tiled Healing Path found on Level 00 and visible hours each day working with physical, occupa- lab’s spacious waiting area, Blair talked about the from all floors. tional, and speech therapists. She made excellent new facility. “I like the continuity, and how much Blair in the Bernstein Family Garden

Right: Blair in the Above: Blair and nurse practitioner Resource Center with Cindy Southerland, RN, ANP, GNP, Holly D’Addurno, OCN, in the Preston Robert Tisch MLS, Director, Cancer Brain Tumor Center Patient Education

To view more photos, go to flickr.com/photos/dukecancer

Below: Friend Strachan and Blair in an infusion room, with a view of the Bernstein Family Garden

Right: Blair with Grace Lukas, coordinator of the Belk Boutique

A village for cancer care Just as Blair talks about the “village” of friends and family that have provided support for her, Henry S. Friedman, MD, co-deputy director of the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, sees the new Cancer Center as one that fosters the “village” needed to fight cancer. “This facility brings together all of the resources of Duke under one roof and improves our ability to collaborate with one another to ensure we provide the very best care for our patients,” he says. “This is a major advance for both the health care teams and our patients who battle cancer on a daily basis.” For Blair, the building offers a warm and comfort- able place to come for check-ups, but it’s the people inside the building who really make the difference. “I am so impressed with Duke employees and the level of genuine commitment they have for patients. Everyone is so thoughtful and caring.” Feeling stronger every day, Blair walks daily and plans to participate in the Brain Tumor Center’s annual fundraising event, the Angels Among Us 5K and Family Fun Walk, on April 28 with her team, Anna Blair’s Flairs. “I have been blessed every step of the way. I feel like I’m in such good hands at Duke and with my family and friends, and all that has really empowered me to be optimistic about beating this.”

Blair and Strachan in the Quiet Room

dukecancerinstitute.org | DUKE CANCER INSTITUTE NOTES · 5 Duke Students Team Up to Support Cancer Institute

group of Duke University students gave “Duke students Atours of the new Duke Cancer Center to have a lot of energy patients and families, community members, and want to get faculty, and staff during the grand opening involved,” Vernerey celebrations February 20-22. These students says. “This is some- are part of Blue Devils vs. Cancer, a new group thing I really care of student ambassadors for the Duke Cancer about, and I know Institute (DCI). many other students The group was founded by Allison Vernerey, do, too.” center for the Duke University women’s basket- One of the group’s ball team. Vernerey, a junior economics major goals is to raise from France, was first introduced to the DCI in funds for the DCI. 2011 when she served as a summer intern for A few weeks before the DCI’s Development Office. She worked on the Cancer Center’s a variety of projects, including recruiting Duke grand opening, Blue student-athletes to volunteer at Ramblin’ Rose, a Devils vs. Cancer women’s half marathon that benefitted the DCI. hosted its first major The summer internship had personal meaning fundraiser: a dessert for Vernerey, who has several extended family tasting for students Allison Vernerey at the Blue Devils vs. Cancer dessert fundraiser members who have battled breast cancer. “I have a n d c o m m u n i t y a few too many connections to this disease,” she members that raised more than $6,000 for the In between her studies and her team’s pursuit notes solemnly. Duke Cancer Fund. of a national championship, Vernerey intends At summer’s end, when school and basketball “Our group wanted the money raised to go to to continue raising money and awareness and resumed, Vernerey wanted to find a way to stay the Duke Cancer Fund so the DCI’s leadership building the connection between Duke students connected to the DCI. With several friends, she can use it where the need is greatest,” Vernerey and the DCI. She’s in good company: Coach formed Blue Devils vs. Cancer, the first student says. “As an intern, I saw how important unre- Joanne P. McCallie and the women’s basketball group at Duke dedicated to supporting cancer stricted contributions are.” program are also working closely with the DCI research and care at Duke. The group quickly to raise awareness and funds. expanded to include other Duke students who have experienced cancer in their families or who want to help fight the disease.

$40K for 40: Duke Alumnus Celebrates Milestone Birthday with Big Gift to DCI

s Joe Lichtenberger turned 39, he was He held dinners, concerts and other events in Aalready thinking about his next birthday. He both Germany and the United States, and through would hit the “Big 4-0” in November 2011, and the generosity of family, friends, and colleagues, he didn’t want to celebrate by “sitting around and Lichtenberger not only met his $40,000 goal—he having a few beers.” That just wasn’t his style. surpassed it by several hundred dollars. He wanted to do something big, something “It was amazing how everyone I talked to had that would make an impact. He decided to use been impacted by cancer in some way, whether his personal milestone as an opportunity to raise through a friend or family member,” he says. money for a worthwhile organization. “Once I told the Duke Cancer Institute story of But which organization? As Lichtenberger was top research combined with compassionate care, mulling over this decision, he received a call from it wasn’t difficult to raise the money. Even those his best friend from high school. In an emotional who had never been to Duke knew the great conversation, he learned that his friend had just reputation of the Duke Cancer Institute.” Joe Lichtenberger been diagnosed with leukemia. The news hit Lichtenberger’s birthday gift was donated to Lichtenberger hard: he had known several other the Duke Cancer Fund, the unrestricted fund that people who had cancer, but no one this young. supports the most pressing needs of the DCI. Lichtenberger decided the money he raised would “We really appreciate Joe’s creativity and go toward cancer research. generosity,” says Michael Kastan, MD, PhD, A 1994 graduate of Duke University, executive director of the DCI. “I hope he will Lichtenberger had maintained strong ties to look back on his birthday and think of the many Duke. Even though he lives in Germany, he patients and families who have benefitted from participates in alumni events held locally and also his selfless efforts.” interviews prospective students. He decided to donate his gift to the Duke Lichtenberger was able to manage all the gifts Cancer Institute (DCI). through a Web site developed in partnership In honor of his 40th birthday, Lichtenberger set with the Duke Cancer Institute. Those who are an ambitious goal of raising $40,000. “My wife interested in using this Web site to raise funds and family thought I was crazy, but I thought I on behalf of the Duke Cancer Institute should would be able to raise that much,” he says. contact David Mainella at david.mainella@ duke.edu or 919-385-3123. Gifts to Cancer Center Make Impact; Honor Patients I have bittersweet memories of my children for patients and families and to truly transform “coming to the outpatient cancer clinics and the way patients with cancer are treated.” notes the hospital at Duke to see their father while The large, five-story atrium and the reception he was being treated,” says Ruth Guthrie, a area in the Cancer Center are named the Joan member of the Duke Cancer Institute’s Board and Bob Tisch & Family Atrium and Reception of Overseers, whose children Scott and Robin Area in honor of the Tisch family and in to make a lasting tribute to their parents Pete were Duke undergraduates when their dad was recognition of their support of the new facility. and Jo, who passed away in 1987 and 2004 receiving treatment. “This new Cancer Center This gift continues their generous support of the respectively. Both parents were Duke alumni will be wonderful for patients and their families Duke Cancer Institute and the Preston Robert and became active volunteers with the Duke now and in the future, and our family is honored Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke. Previous Cancer Institute after Pete was diagnosed with to be a part of this facility.” gifts from the family have funded research and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 1980. Through the clinical trials to study new therapies for brain Armstrong Family Foundation, the sons made a tumors and to conduct genomic research of brain gift of $100,000 to the facility. An infusion bay tumors. The brain tumor center was named is named for the Armstrong family. the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center Duke faculty and staff also made gifts to the in 2005 in recognition of a generous gift from building. “Our new facility, which offers the Mr. Tisch, a patient of the center, who passed latest linear accelerator technology, gives us the away in 2006. opportunity to further improve treatment of our The rooftop garden in the new Cancer Center patients, now and many years into the future,” is named the Bernstein Family Garden in says radiation oncologist John Kirkpatrick, MD, recognition of a gift from Donna A. Bernstein PhD, who made a gift to support the building. and her son, Sam Bernstein, in memory of Not everyone who donated to the building Harold Bernstein, Donna’s father and Sam’s has a direct connection to cancer. Some simply grandfather. The Bernstein family has generously know what the new facility will mean for future Ruth Guthrie with Michael Kastan, MD, PhD, supported the research of chronic lymphocytic patients. “I have empathy for anyone going and Victor J. Dzau, MD leukemia at the Duke Cancer Institute led by Jon through such a serious disease like cancer,” says Guthrie and her children (and their spouses) Gockerman, MD. Harold Bernstein, a patient of Duke University alumnus and member of the made a gift of $50,000 toward construction of Gockerman, passed away in 2004. Board of Overseers Jonathan Wigser, who gave the new building in memory of her husband and A boutique located on the main floor of the $50,000 towards the new building. “I want to their father, David, who was treated at Duke for new building is named the Belk Boutique in help provide a better experience for patients and pancreatic cancer. David passed away in 1997. recognition of a $1 million gift made by Belk, their families.” An infusion room bears his name. One of the private infusion rooms in the new Inc. The Boutique—which is four times larger “The Duke Cancer Institute is truly grateful building is named for him. than the previous self-image shop—provides to all of our donors,” says Michael Kastan, Hundreds of families like the Guthries, as well wigs, turbans, and an array of cosmetics and MD, PhD, executive director of the Duke as foundations, corporations, and Duke faculty other items to address the needs of patients Cancer Institute. “In particular, it is important and staff, made gifts of all amounts toward being treated for cancer. to acknowledge today those who have given construction of the new Cancer Center. Many More than 150 families and organizations— toward the creation of this amazing facility. of the gifts honor or memorialize patients who from around the world—made gifts to the Duke This new Cancer Center optimizes the very were treated at Duke. Cancer Center. “It is touching to see so much essence of the Duke Cancer Institute model, “We are grateful to all of the individuals and support for this new facility. It is especially promoting integration and collaboration among organizations who have partnered with us to make meaningful when the gifts pay tribute to loved our physicians and entire care teams as well as meaningful changes in the way cancer care is ones,” says Carolyn Carpenter, MHA, FACHE, our researchers to ensure that we are all sharing delivered,” says Kevin Sowers, RN, MSN, FAAN, Duke Cancer Institute administrator and knowledge and making discoveries that will president of Duke University Hospital. “They all associate dean. enhance the lives of our patients and patients share in our mission to create a better experience Drew, Eric, Mark, and Tom Armstrong wanted around the world.”

Honor Roll of Donors Making a Gift of $5,000 or More

Anonymous Donor Mr. William K. Caler, Jr. The Kean/Hartquist Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Fred J. Stanback, Jr. Private Infusion Room Two Infusion Bays: In Honor of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Kean, Jr. Healing Path Rosa May Seward Caler and Nicholas Georgiade, MD, Mr. Jack Sussman and Armstrong Family Foundation Inc. In Honor of Pat & Richard Johnson Waiting Room Mr. and Mrs. Eric Armstrong Mrs. Ellen Kislak-Sussman Mr. and Mrs. Mark Armstrong Mr. Frank Courtney Ms. Elizabeth B. Lamar Healing Path Mr. Peter A. Armstrong Healing Path Mr. and Mrs. Frederic V. Malek Mrs. Joan Tisch Mr. and Mrs. Tom L. Armstrong The Dickson Foundation & Harris Teeter, Healing Path Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Tisch Infusion Bay Inc. Ms. Laurie Tisch Mr. Joseph E. Morris Ballard Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Alan T. Dickson Mr. Steven Tisch Healing Path Mrs. Robin Ballard Ziperski The Dickson Foundation Joan and Bob Tisch & Family Atrium Private Infusion Room & Harris Teeter Waiting Room Ms. Virginia Moshy and Reception Area in Honor of Claude M. Ballard Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Earle Dr. and Mrs. James B. Powell Mr. Mark Toland Mr.* and Mrs. George D. Beischer In Honor of Dr. and Mrs. James G. Healing Path Healing Path George D. and Susan F. Beischer Ferguson, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Rick Vernon Conference Room Dr. and Mrs. Carl E. Ravin Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Fields Healing Path BB&T Healing Path Stu and Betsy Reese Family Foundation Mrs. Sue Donathan White Conference Room Mr. and Mrs. Stuart H. Reese Mr. Mark Garcea Staff Lounge and Dr. Timothy E. Davis Belk, Inc. Infusion Bay Private Infusion Room and Belk Boutique Ms. Mimi Sabates Healing Path Mr. and Mrs. Lee Gunderson Healing Path Ms. Donna A. Bernstein Healing Path Mr. Jonathan Wigser and Mr. Samuel J. Bernstein Dr. Ellen Sigal and Mr. Gerald R. Sigal Private Infusion Room and Mrs. Ruth Guthrie The Bernstein Family Garden Healing Path Healing Path Healing Path in Honor of Harold P. Bernstein Mrs. Diane Siskey Mr. and Mrs. Mark N. Wittenstein Mrs. Ruth Guthrie Mr. Edward Botwinick Healing Path Healing Path Mr. and Mrs. Scott David Guthrie and Ms. Vicki Brown Dr. Robin Guthrie Fawcett Mr. Kevin Sowers Mr. and Mrs. Myles F. Wittenstein Healing Path Private Infusion Room Conference Room in Honor of Myrtle The R.A. Bryan Foundation in Honor of R. David Guthrie Nelson Wittenstein and Healing Path Mr. and Mrs. Raymond A. Bryan, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Harry Headley Infusion Bay Private Infusion Room in Honor of The above recognizes generous supporters of the Duke Cancer Center who either made a gift to the Cancer Center or directed that a gift be made through Their Daughter Sheila Marie Headley their community foundation. *Deceased dukecancerinstitute.org | DUKE CANCER INSTITUTE NOTES · 7 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Durham, NC DUMC 3687 Permit No. 60 Durham, NC 27710

If you prefer to receive this newsletter by e-mail, please visit dukecancerinstitute.org/notes.

ask the expert to help us understand the clinical relevance and potential diagnostic and therapeutic application Translational research: Moving of discoveries made in the laboratory. Duke is discoveries from the lab to the clinic one of only a handful of institutions in the world with the capability to build a database of this Duke oncologist Neil Spector, MD, is co-director of the Experimental Therapeutics magnitude. The more patients we care for, the Program at the Duke Cancer Institute (DCI). He is recognized internationally for his larger the database will be, and the greater the leadership in the development of cancer drugs such as Tykerb. Spector came to Duke value and impact it will have on the future of in 2006 from GlaxoSmithKline to direct the DCI’s efforts to translate basic science cancer research and patient care. discoveries in the laboratory into advanced care for our cancer patients. Neil Spector, MD What are some other examples of transla- tional research taking place at Duke? What is translational research? How is the Duke Cancer Institute involved Dr. Spector: An exciting example of trans- Dr. Spector: Translational research is taking in translational research? lational research at Duke is the work of Dr. knowledge developed and insight gained in the Dr. Spector: To continue to be a world-class Mark Dewhirst, who studies the effects of heat laboratory, and applying it in the clinic in order center for cancer care and research, the DCI treatment on tumors. In the lab, Dr. Dewhirst to enhance detection, treatment, prediction of must have a world-class program in translational developed heat-sensitive “nanoparticles” that outcomes, and prevention of disease in people. research. Building that program here is a top can carry chemotherapy drugs to a tumor when Essentially, it is bridging the gap between the priority. We have brilliant investigators working injected into the bloodstream. Then, when the science being done in the lab, and the clinic in cancer genetics, biology, pharmacology, and tumor is heated, the nanoparticles release the where patients are treated. other disciplines and making important discov- drug directly into the tumor. This technology is We often hear in the media about great eries. The Duke Cancer Institute is committed to now being used in a clinical trial to treat recur- scientific discoveries, like a new gene identified making it easier for our basic scientists and clini- rence of breast cancer. It also could be used to in fruit flies, for instance. And the researchers cians to collaborate in order to translate these treat other cancers. always say, “At some point, we hope this will discoveries into advanced care for our patients In another Duke laboratory, physician-scien- help people with cancer.” Since most of us will through new medications, imaging technologies, tist Dr. John Sampson has developed a vaccine be touched by disease at some point in our lives, diagnostic tools, and other advances. that has shown encouraging preliminary results we all want see those great discoveries applied to Translating our home-grown research is a in clinical trials for treating some glioblastomas, advancing treatment and outcomes. That’s what big challenge, since academic medical centers the most aggressive type of brain tumor. translational research is all about. have not historically been geared toward doing And Dr. Donald McDonnell, chair of Duke’s that—a role traditionally filled by pharmaceu- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Who does this type of research, and why is tical and biotechnology companies. Because Biology, has developed anti-estrogen approaches it important? industry now considers discovery research too that are being tested in women who have Dr. Spector: You never know where the next big high a risk for their business models, the respon- estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer that has advances in cancer treatment are going to come sibility for drug and device development has become resistant to standard therapies. from. The key is to have people who are thinking: been shifting from industry to academia. More “How does that discovery potentially apply to and more, institutions like Duke are being called How does the Duke Cancer Institute impact patient care?” upon to lead the way. translational research? Traditionally there have been excellent At the DCI, our goal is to build our capacity Dr. Spector: The vision of the DCI for Dr. Victor basic scientists hard at work in university and to help our scientists and clinicians move their Dzau, Duke chancellor for health affairs, is corporate laboratories, and then there have been research from the laboratory to the clinic as to bring together clinicians and basic science excellent physicians working in hospitals and efficiently and effectively as possible. One way researchers who are now spread across the clinics, but it was difficult to bridge that gap. It’s we are doing that is through our Experimental Duke campus, so that they can regularly meet, essential that we can think in both worlds—so Therapeutics Program, which interfaces with exchange ideas, brainstorm, and problem-solve. we can understand the science and say, “Well, basic and clinical investigators, providing the This type of interaction is critical to our ability maybe that discovery in Alzheimer’s disease has expertise to help Duke investigators move their to translate research effectively from the lab to some bearing on bladder cancer,” or vice versa. projects forward, whether through internal the patient. That has begun to happen more and And increasingly, through physician-scientist resources or through strategic alliances with more at Duke. training programs and through the addition of partners beyond Duke. And the new Cancer Center will only translational research training in medical schools One of our biggest projects is to build a tissue enhance our ability for collaboration among and doctoral programs, we are gaining more database of every cancer biopsied at Duke, so that physicians and scientists and to inform and people from both the medical and science worlds we can track the molecular pathology of cancers educate our patients about new and innova- who have that mindset and that ability to bridge and correlate the molecular profile of cancers tive treatment options. All in all, this building the divide. with clinical outcomes. Having a database of represents an important step forward for the this caliber is a critical aspect of translational DCI in our commitment to push the boundaries research, because we need these tissue samples to improve outcomes for our patients.

The Duke Cancer Institute is on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

TM An account is not necessary to view these pages. facebook.com/dukecancerinstitute, twitter.com/dukecancer, youtube.com/user/dukecancerinstitute