In August 2007 Mary Alice Shatkus brought her mammogram films and diagnostic reports to Loyola. Her breast cancer diagnosis was confirmed. Experts in breast cancer surgery, pathology, medical oncology (management of chemotherapies and other medications) and radiation treatment gathered to review her materials and discuss her options. Later that day, after having developed her personalized treatment plan, the core team who would care for Mary Alice met with her.
“I was very pleased with the team approach,” Mary Alice said. “They totally gave all their attention to me – first, one at a time, then as an entire group. I felt like the surgery, the chemo and the radiation treatments were all connected.”
“Cancer is unique in that your first treatment is not only the best chance but unfortunately usually the only chance for cure,” said Patrick Stiff, MD, ABIM, Coleman Professor of Oncology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, division director, hematology/oncology, and the medical director of Loyola’s Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center. “Where this first therapy is administered may strongly influence your chances of cure. So if I were a cancer patient, I’d want the best care first, not last. Unfortunately, too often we see patients for the first time once they have exhausted standard therapies given elsewhere.”
Choosing Loyola also gave Mary Alice an opportunity to participate in clinical studies. She enrolled in a study best suited for her condition. That proved to be the right choice.
After a surgery, two rounds of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation, the Palos Heights resident returned to her work and is spending time with her children, grandchildren and friends.
For more information about Loyola cancer services or to schedule an appointment, please call (888) LUHS-888 and ask for the CAN-HELP cancer information service.
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SYSTEM
