Cancer Care Connections Virginia Oncology Associates

When Kara DeMott's sister-in-law faced leukemia, it ignited a passion in Kara that transformed her career path, leading her to combine her love for emergency medicine with the world of oncology. In our latest episode, Kara, a dedicated Physician Assistant at Virginia Oncology Associates, candidly shares her experience in creating an urgent care program for cancer patients. By offering immediate care for acute symptoms, Kara’s initiative is changing the landscape of oncology support, offering a sanctuary of comfort and familiarity, and keeping hospital visits at bay.

The episode also navigates the often-turbulent waters of managing side effects, where Kara lends her expertise to the simple yet effective changes in diet and over-the-counter remedies that can make a world of difference. We discuss the critical 'red flags' in cancer care, such as fevers and abnormal bleeding, and how prompt action can significantly alter the course of a patient's journey.  Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of the strides being made in urgent care for oncology at VOA, and the compassionate, comprehensive approach needed to support those affected by cancer.

Kara DeMott Kara graduated Summa Cum Laude from Lynchburg College in 2008 with a degree in Athletic Training. Upon completing her bachelor’s degree, she attended Eastern Virginia Medical School to become a Physician Assistant and has been practicing since 2011. She has worked in the Emergency Department and Urgent Care settings for over 10 years. She joined Virginia Oncology Associates to begin an Urgent Care program for the patients of VOA.  
The VOA C.A.R.E. Clinic opened in May of 2022. This clinic sees patients who are experiencing acute symptoms related to cancer treatment. This model was introduced to Virginia Oncology Associates to allow our patients to be seen on the same day without worrying whether the physician's schedules could support them. This model also provides access to acute care while keeping them out of the emergency room.
Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Discover the transformative advances in treatment as Dr. Graham Watson of Virginia Oncology Associates sheds light on the power of personalized medicine in the battle against cancer. His passion for the subject is evident, as he navigates the complexities of cutting-edge therapies like immunotherapy and targeted treatment. Not only do these innovative approaches offer a tailored fit to individuals, but they also signify a departure from traditional chemotherapy. Dr. Watson's insights promise to leave you informed and hopeful, championing the importance of patient engagement and the profound impact of understanding your own treatment.

In this episode, we discuss what fuels cancer's relentless progression and how novel therapies are revolutionizing patient care. Dr. Watson emphasizes the necessity of clear communication in oncology, a field where knowledge is more than power—it's a lifeline. Dr. Watson encourages patients to take an active role in their healthcare journey, armed with questions and a supportive care team ready to navigate the road to recovery together.

Dr. Graham T. Watson grew up in Richmond, VA. He attended Davidson College on an academic/leadership scholarship and earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology. He received his Doctorate in Medicine from Wake Forest University School of Medicine where he received the Lange Award for academic excellence in the first year and was named the most outstanding student in Hematology and Oncology. While at Wake Forest, he was inducted into AOA Medical Honor Society, Gold Humanism Honor Society, and served as Student Body President. Dr. Watson completed his residency in Internal Medicine and his fellowship in Medical Oncology and Hematology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.  In his final year, he served as Chief Fellow. 
He has performed research in the area of “physician-patient communication” and his practice philosophy is to focus on excellent communication with his patients and their families. He views himself as an advisor and educator for his patients with the goal of helping them make the best treatment decision for their individual situation. Dr. Watson treats patients with all types of cancers and blood disorders, and his clinical interests include lung cancer, lymphoma, melanoma, and cancers of the head and neck. 
 Resources mentioned in this podcast
Cancer Care Connections: Car T-Cell Therapy: Engineering the Immune System to Fight Cancer with Dr. Gary Simmons 
Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Discover the groundbreaking strides made in the fight against lung cancer as we welcome Dr. Christopher Paschold from Virginia Oncology Associates to share his expertise on the latest in cancer treatment and screening. Our conversation sheds light on the silent progression of non-small cell lung cancer and the critical role early detection plays in improving outcomes. Dr. Paschold emphasizes the importance of proactive screening measures for those at high- risk. We also explore the impact of breakthrough therapies like immunotherapy and targeted therapy treatments, offering new hope to patients.  This episode is a resource for anyone touched by lung cancer, driving home the message that early intervention and informed action can dramatically alter the course of this illness.

Dr. Christopher Paschold graduated from Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He then completed a residency in Internal Medicine and a fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the University of Virginia. 
Dr. Paschold has been involved in various research studies and publications. He has held multiple hospital leadership positions and is a graduate of the Medical Society of Virginia's Claude Moore Leadership Institute. Dr. Paschold has received a variety of awards, including being invited into the Life Sciences Honors Program at North Carolina State University, and is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology, and the Society of Integrative Oncology. 
 
Resources mentioned in this podcast
LUNGevity Foundation: https://www.lungevity.org/ 
American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer.html 
Tools  to Quit Smoking
Smoking Cessation Programs
Prescriptions (ask your doctor for details)
Nicotine Replacement
Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Do you wonder how to navigate the holiday season while battling a cancer diagnosis? Join us as we seek answers in a holiday edition of Cancer Care Connections with Susan Miller and Andrea Edwards from Virginia Oncology Associates. These women are here to provide some much-needed guidance on combating stress during the holiday season. They offer an assortment of strategies, from practicing meditation to engaging in exercise, and stress the significance of leaning on your loved ones. and expressing your needs. Remember, it's completely okay to ask for help and create new traditions that work best for you during this season of your life.

We reveal a sneak peek into our next episode featuring Dr. Christopher Pashold, who'll be shedding light on screening and treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer.  

The holidays can be a joyful time.  Let's not forget to appreciate the moments, lean on our support systems, and keep open lines of communication with our healthcare teams. Everyone, have a happy and healthy holiday season!


Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Early detection and self-advocacy are the keys to combating prostate cancer. As a medical oncologist, as well as president of Virginia Oncology Associates, Dr. Fleming not only shares his professional insights but also his personal journey dealing with prostate cancer. He emphasizes the importance of the PSA test, which plays a critical role in early diagnosis. 

Dr. Mark T. Fleming is board-certified in Medical Oncology.  He received his B.A. at Philadelphia’s prestigious University of Pennsylvania and his Doctorate in Medicine at the Medical University of Ohio.  Dr. Fleming completed his residency at Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, and his Medical Oncology Fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY. He then joined Virginia Oncology Associates (VOA) in August 2006.   
Cancers of the Bladder, Kidney, Prostate, and Testicles, as well as Phase 1 novel drug development, are Dr. Fleming’s special clinical interest and expertise.  He is heavily involved in cancer research serving as a principal investigator for clinical trials, locally and nationally, collaborating with institutions like Duke University Network, Hoosier Oncology Group, Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials Consortium, and Sarah Cannon Research to provide the latest treatment options to patients.   
Dr. Fleming currently serves as the Medical Director of US Oncology’s Genitourinary (Bladder, Kidney, Prostate, and Testicular Cancers) Research Committee. He is also pivotal in coordinating the VOA’s genitourinary research program and backing up the Phase 1 program.  In addition to his clinical and research activities, Dr. Fleming is an active leader within the medical community previously serving as both the Division Chief of Eastern Virginia Medical School Department of Hematology & Oncology and President of the Medical staff at Sentara Careplex Hospital. As a co-founding member and past president of the Hampton Roads Prostate Health Forum, Dr. Fleming is a passionate speaker on the importance of cancer education and the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer.

Resources mentioned in this podcast 
 
Prostate Cancer Foundation: https://www.pcf.org/ 
NCCN (National Comprehensive Cancer Network): The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®) are comprised of recommendations for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of malignancies across the continuum of care. https://www.nccn.org/ 
Hampton Roads Prostate Health Forum: https://www.hrprostatehealth.com/ 
Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

On this week’s episode of Cancer Care Connections, Cheryl Tan discusses with Dr. Sonia Hepburn, hematologist oncologist for Virginia Oncology Associates, the pros and cons of genetic testing, specifically as it relates to breast cancer and other associated cancers.  
 Dr. Sonia Hepburn received her Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology from Princeton University. She received her medical degree from the University of Southern California where she also did her internship/residency in Internal Medicine. She completed her Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill.  
She is an active member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Hematology. She is trained in treating all cancer types with a special interest in breast, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers. 

Topics
What is a genetic mutation? [2:22]
Recommendations for a breast cancer patient to undergo genetic testing [3:41]
What is the genetic testing process? [6:49]
What the test results mean for patients with breast cancer [ 7:25]
Family history and the Tyrer-Cuzick model score [9:39]
Variations in cancer risk based on mutations [10:58]
What does it mean if the test comes back negative [13:17]
Patient Story – predisposition to cancer [16:20]
How to get referred [18:24]


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Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.