Cancer survivors and caregivers attended the Cancer Survivors Celebration hosted by Phelps Memorial Health Center earlier this week.
Eric Hruska, Director of Specialty Clinics, welcomed attendees and said, “Tonight, we celebrate not only the survivors, whose courage and perseverance inspires us all, but also the caregivers who have supported them every step of the journey. Surviving cancer takes more than treatment, it takes a community and we are so grateful to be a part of yours.”
Eric shared that Phelps Memorial partners with Cancer Partners of Nebraska to provide the best oncological care to our patients.
He said, “We continue to grow our partnership with them and this year we added a fifth oncologist to the rotation, Dr. Irfran Vaziri. He, along with Dr. Green, Dr. Dunder, Dr. Zahoor and Dr. McHam offer oncological services here at Phelps Memorial six times per month.”
He said that Stacey Vanboening is our in-house Nurse Practitioner who collaborates and works very closely with the oncologists. Stacey, alongside our knowledgeable nurses, imaging department and frontline staff provide optimal care 5 days a week.
Hruska shared that the Imaging department plays a critical role in the early detection, diagnosis, and management of cancer. He explained that they utilize a range of advanced imaging modalities and are able to provide comprehensive evaluation of breast tissue including:
*3D Mammography- for screening and diagnostic imaging
*Breast MRI- for high risk screening
*Breast Ultrasound- for diagnostic follow up of mammographic findings or palpable lumps
*Stereotactic Biopsy- a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure using mammographic guidance to locate and biopsy abnormal areas.
They also offer PET/CT on site at Phelps Memorial Health Center which plays a significant role in early detection and treatment of many cancers and evaluates the effectiveness of chemotherapy, radiation or immunotherapy all of which are vital in the fight against cancer.
Eric introduced the featured speakers Stephanie Stephenson and Teresea Baack, volunteers for the American Cancer Society.
During the event, Stephanie Stevenson, a dedicated volunteer with the American Cancer Society, offered an encouraging message to cancer survivors, noting that more people than ever are surviving cancer and living longer lives. She shared that there are currently more than 18 million cancer survivors in the United States, a number that continues to rise thanks to earlier detection, increased access to screenings, and advancements in treatment. Stevenson emphasized that with continued progress in research and awareness, even more individuals will be able to celebrate life beyond cancer.
She also highlighted the many resources available through the American Cancer Society (ACS), reassuring survivors that they are never alone on their journey. Among the support services mentioned was the National Cancer Information Center (NCIC), which offers 24/7 guidance and answers from trained cancer specialists. Stevenson introduced the new ACS CARES app (Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support). This digital tool connects patients and caregivers with personalized content, support programs, and services tailored to their specific cancer experience. She also shared information about the Road to Recovery program, which offers free rides to and from treatment appointments, and the Hope Lodge in Omaha, which provides free lodging for eligible patients who must travel far from home for care.
“Cancer is not something you face alone,” Stevenson said. “We all walk through a similar path, and it’s the support of others, our friends, our families, our caregivers, our medical providers, and organizations like Phelps Memorial Health Center and the American Cancer Society, that helps us through. That support can make all the difference.”
Stevenson encouraged survivors to continue leaning on one another and to reach out for help when they need it. “It’s the connection we share that gives us strength,” she added. “Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, or celebrating survivorship, you’re part of a community that understands and you are never alone.”
Teresa Baack , Central Nebraska Relay for Life Leadership Committee Leader, was in attendance and shared information about the Central Nebraska Relay for Life. The event will take place, on June 6, 2025, at Harmon Park in Kearney.
The event is open to everyone. Funds raised through Relay For Life help the American Cancer Society improve the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer.
The full event will be held from 5:00 pm-10:00 pm at Harmon Park in Kearney. Those attending may come and go at the event. A dinner is served for all registered survivors. All are welcome to attend this event.
