2009 Calendar a NN KA R MA NO S CA N C in ER S T I TU TE Can C Er
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2009 Calendar HOPE A YEAR OF HOPE AND HEALING AT THE BARBARA ANN KARMANOS CANCER INSTITUTE CAN C ER. I’ve spent a good part of my life raising money, giving money and working in various ways to end this disease in our lifetime. I do this for literally thousands of families who face their fear of cancer and turn to Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute (KCI) because of its reputation as one of the best treatment centers in the world with a team of experts that helps in every aspect of the disease. I didn’t think I would ever get cancer. But when my wife Danialle and I found out that I did, like all cancer patients, we were scared. However, we had an advantage: we knew exactly where to go. KCI is the only hospital in Michigan solely dedicated to treating cancer–all types of cancer. It ranks number one as southeastern Michigan’s most preferred hospital for cancer care, according to research conducted by the National Research Corporation in 2007 and 2008, and is one of only 41 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States. The experts at KCI quickly pinpointed my problem: a cancerous tumor within one of my kidneys. The diagnosis was quick, but more importantly was 100 percent accurate. My wife and I were surrounded by a team of the best doctors, nurses and administrators in the world. They told us what to expect and left nothing to the imagination. The surgery was perfect, and in less than one week this 65-year old CEO was back to work. That same week I was playing golf as a cancer-free duffer. After it became public that I had had cancer treatment, someone asked me where I had the surgery performed. I looked at the person with that “are you kidding?” expression. I was almost uncharacteristically speechless. Finally, I replied, “Where do you think? My last name is KARMANOS!” What I thought was a stupid question, later gave me pause. If it’s not a “no-brainer” that KCI is the first and best place everyone should go when cancer becomes their reality, then our work at making this known is obviously not yet complete. This is why Danialle and I will continue to Hear cancer. Think Karmanos. support KCI in any way we can until we can finally and forever eradicate the disease of cancer. We hope you will join us in this effort. Sincerely, Peter Karmanos, Jr. 1-800-Karmanos Chairman and CEO karmanos.org Compuware Corporation JanuarySUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY January is Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness Month. To learn more about cervical cancer treatment or 2009 prevention, please visit karmanos.org. 1 New Year’s Day 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Martin Luther 18 19 King, Jr. Day 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 karmanos.org 1-800-Karmanos ON HEALING An InsightPatIENT’S COURAGEOUS ATTITUDE REVEALS GREat INNER STRENGTH For many cancer patients, eliminating Subsequent treatments diminished the tumor, stress is crucial to healing. For Brian Tomczyk, but it returned again just before his wedding a 23-year-old patient from Big Rapids, creat- last June. Tomczyk and his bride, Katie, took the ing mental barriers against anxiety has been news in stride. When he returned to Karmanos essential in his three-year battle against Primary for radiation therapy shortly after the wedding, Central Nervous System Lymphoma (PCNSL). he and Katie hung a “Just Married” sign on his hospital room door. “Adversity does not define who you are – how you react to adversity does,” Tomczyk says. “You “During my three years with cancer, Katie have to train your mind to reduce negativity and has been my best friend, girlfriend, fiancée stress no matter what you’re going through.” and now my wife,” Tomczyk says. “Her sacrifices, dedication and nurturing love give me When Tomczyk first showed symptoms of strength. My parents, family, friends and other the disease in 2006, his professors at Ferris acquaintances also help carry me through State University initially attributed his this. The greatest part about my cancer battle erratic behavior to drugs. Normally an excellent has been the love I have felt from other people.” student, Tomczyk suddenly began exhibiting slurred speech and manic behavior. Another source of inspiration to Tomczyk is his aunt, Janet DiFelice, who received treatment A subsequent CT scan and biopsy revealed at Karmanos for ovarian cancer while Tomczyk PCNSL as the true cause of Tomczyk’s behavior. went through radiation therapy. Originating in the brain, PCNSL is a rare cancer that can cause headaches, forgetfulness, confusion “I cherish my Aunt Janet,” Tomczyk says. and limb weakness. Possible treatments include “Before she was diagnosed with cancer she chemotherapy, radiation therapy and stem cell did a cancer walk in my honor. She also has a transplants. Tomczyk chose to be treated by the special needs daughter who requires a lot of Karmanos Cancer Center’s team of hematology attention. My aunt has taught me a lot about experts, led by Charles Schiffer, M.D. grace and compassion.” “Karmanos is the only hospital in Michigan Though Tomczyk’s graduation has been delayed dedicated solely to cancer research and a couple years, earning his degree remains one treatment,” Tomczyk says. “When I learned of his highest goals. that, I decided there was no better place for me. “I also want to write at least one book and do Dr. Schiffer and all the doctors and nurses have some motivational speaking about what I’ve been wonderful to me. I cannot thank them learned in fighting cancer,” he says. “I believe enough for their care and compassion.” that all humans face hardships and joys in life. Tomczyk began treatment with chemotherapy I want to make positive contributions to the to break down his immune system, followed by world and help others deal with their suffering. a stem cell transplant. The treatment initially Life is a gift, not an entitlement. Our response KATIE AND BRIAN TOMCZYK appeared successful but the cancer returned. to adversity reveals all we can be.” FebruarySUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY2009SATURDAY 1 2 Groundhog Day 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Valentine’s Day 15 16 President’s Day 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Ash Wednesday 26 27 28 February is National Cancer Prevention Month. Adopt a healthy lifestyle and follow a diet that contains more nutrient-rich foods, such as vegetables, grains and fruit. Exercise daily and undergo routine health screenings. Be sure and tell your doctor if you have a family history of cancer. karmanos.org 1-800-Karmanos Sponsor or attend Host a fundraiser one of our Our Friends Raising Funds program is dedicated to signature events individuals, community organizations and businesses that seek ways to get involved. From golf outings and walks, to bake sales and private dinners, hosting your ANNUAL DINNER own event offers a great opportunity to support MAY 2009 Karmanos and get creative. Sandy Schwartz (left), Karmanos board member Nettie H. Seabrooks and Karmanos Chairman of the Board Alan S. Schwartz enjoy PARTNERS GOLF LEFT: A sold out crowd attended the Michigan Design Partners Night where $1.2 million was raised for cancer research. CLASSIC AND NIGHT Center’s CatWalk event benefitting Karmanos. Photo by Patricia A. Ellis FALL 2009 Designers: Jill Schumacher & Michele Mio, Rariden, Schumacher Mio & Co. Showroom: Rozmallin Contact Stephanie Schwager at 313-576-8112 Contact Lauren Miller at 313-576-8121 [email protected] [email protected] The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute Needs Your Continued Support MAKE A DIFFERENCE There are many ways to support cancer care and research. Please join us in the fight against cancer. Launch an employee pledge drive for Karmanos Donate online Use your Visa, MasterCard, Discover or Philanthropic employers such as Crain Communications offer employees the American Express to make a convenient, opportunity to support the Karmanos Cancer secure donation online now at Karmanos.org. Institute. A partnership with Karmanos also helps enhance your corporate image, Sign up for the latest Karmanos while fostering customer and employee loyalty. Cancer Institute information. Visit www.karmanos.org/efriends Call Maureen Bender at 313-576-8111 [email protected] MarchSUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY2009SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Prophet Daylight Saving Muhammad’s 8 Time Begins 9 Birthday 10 Purim 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 St. Patrick’s Day 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. To learn more about colorectal cancer treatment or prevention, please visit karmanos.org. 29 30 31 karmanos.org 1-800-Karmanos We’re #1 Karmanos Ranked Most Preferred Cancer Care HospitalAgain For the second consecutive year, the Karmanos Cancer Center has been designated the most preferred Brilliant physicians hospital for cancer care among 12 hospitals in southeast and researchers, Michigan, according to the 2008 Cancer Treatment compassionate and caring nurses, Preference Profile Survey conducted by the National cancer survivors Research Corporation. and dedicated volunteers and This annual survey, conducted via an Internet supporters represent the Karmanos questionnaire, was sent to nearly 200,000 households Cancer Center. throughout the United States, including 3,504 homes in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, St. Clair and Monroe counties. The respondent was the individual in the household who is the primary health care decision-maker. Respondents who preferred Karmanos for cancer care also preferred its personalized care, advanced technology and equipment, expert doctors, overall quality and image or reputation.