Today, April 29, 2021 marks the 10-year anniversary of the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center in Cedar Rapids, IA. A vision created by several organizations, St. Luke’s Hospital, Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa and independent groups and providers in the community, to work together to provide coordinated and comprehensive care for cancer patients.
“I think we all saw that cancer care was getting more complex, there were more cancer survivors and patients needing support and services to manage long-term effects of treatment. We really felt there was a way we could work better together to make sure their care wasn’t only well coordinated, but that we were providing the most comprehensive care right here in our community,” said Kimberly Ivester, administrative director at the Community Cancer Center.
This vision became a reality a decade ago and has allowed cancer patients in the Cedar Rapids area to receive exceptional comprehensive care without needing to travel. Everything patients need – both medical and support services – are available under one roof.
In addition to the services provided at the Community Cancer Center, we partner with several local organizations (see complete list below) who host events, donate various items and, through philanthropy, allow us to provide support services to cancer patients and survivors at no cost.
“It’s one area that’s very unique to us as a Community Cancer Center,” said Matt Schmitz, Physical and Integrative Wellness program manager. “Our programs are for anyone with a cancer diagnosis, whether they’re just diagnosed or 10 years out in survivorship, all of those people are welcome to attend any of our classes, and that’s run through philanthropy.”
Over the coming months, as we celebrate 10 years of providing the most comprehensive cancer care in the community, we’ll provide articles and podcasts with our experts as they share about the services provided at the Community Cancer Center, how the services have grown and expanded over the last 10 years, and look ahead to what’s to come. Today, as we kick-off our celebration, listen to the podcast below, featuring Kimberly and Matt, who have both been with the Community Cancer Center all 10 years.
Hear From Our Experts
Celebrating 10 Years of the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center
PODCAST EPISODE: 114
April 29, 2021 marks the 10-year anniversary of the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center. To recognize this milestone, Kimberly Ivester, administrative director, and Matt Schmitz, Physical and Integrative Wellness program manager and cancer exercise specialist, who have both been at the Community Cancer Center all 10 years, join Dr. Arnold to discuss the center, progress made over the last 10 years, support they receive from community partners and more.