Executive Director Message - July 2023
Since our doors opened in 2006, our 150 dedicated staff members have brought hope of a cancer-free future to more than 10,000 patients from Florida, the U.S. and 34 countries. Our physicians are advancing cancer treatment with an innovative approach to treatment and clinical research.
New Child Life Specialist Jasmine Miller Knew Early on She Wanted to Help Children with Cancer
Jasmine Miller, Child Life Specialist, knew from the age of eight that she wanted to find a career helping kids with cancer. Young Jasmine watched her dad struggle through a cancer diagnosis and treatment and thought that if her dad was suffering so much then how would someone her own age feel.
Survivor Spotlight: Melissa Breedlove
Melissa shares her breast cancer story as she believes so many more breast cancer patients could benefit from proton therapy.
In 2017, Melissa Breedlove, a 36-year-old scientist and mom, was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. She is thankful that during her initial radiation consultation in Gainesville, the physician was knowledgeable about proton therapy, and she recommended it as an option to explore.
Former Pediatric Patient Turned Nursing Student Reflects on Her Cancer Journey, Inspiration for Career
Lauren Foster made her first trip to the United States from her family’s home in Birmingham, England when she was 10 years old. It was a trip that would change her life. Lauren, her mother, father and sister made the journey together so that Lauren could receive proton therapy treatment for a rare tumor called rhabdomyosarcoma, a type of tumor that occurs in soft tissue.
Survivor Spotlight: Arthur “Ajay” Bendolph
Ajay Bendolph wants men to know prostate cancer could happen to them even if they don’t expect it. According to the National Cancer Institute, African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and are twice as likely to die from the disease, compared to white men.
Climb For Cancer Funds Child Life Specialist Position
In April, the Climb for Cancer Foundation visited the UF Health Proton Therapy Institute for a tour and lunch. The tour included a presentation from Dr. Daniel Indelicato and a visit to a treatment room.
Proton Therapy News Brief Roundup
Catch up on news and developments at the UF Health Proton Therapy Institute.
- Cancer Survivor Month Flash Mob
- Dr. Mailhot Recognized at 61st Annual PTCOG Conference