Conversations For The Cure (sponsored By Alegent Health)

Alegent Health radiation oncologist, Dr. Joan Keit and breast cancer survivor, Joyce, join the program to talk about a revolutionary new cancer treatment. TomoTherapy has been called the future of radiation therapy. This all-in-one solution allows doctors to check the location of tumors before each treatment, then deliver painless, precise radiation therapy resulting in unmatched accuracy for breast cancer patients.

The Wings of Hope Cancer Support Center assists those with cancer at all stages of their illness and helps families and friends cope with cancer in their lives. Their goal is to provide emotional support and guidance for people with cancer, family members and health professionals. This week's guests include an Alegent Health Cancer Support Team Specialist, an Oncology Nurse Navigator, an Alegent Health Nurse Practitioner and a cancer survivor.

Alegent Health radiologist, Patricia A. Helk, and breast cancer survivor, Teri Fitzpatrick, join the program to discuss digital mammography. This breakthrough in technology allows for clearer pictures, faster results and detection at an earlier stage, making a tremendous difference for thousands of women.

Patients are beating breast cancer with the help of Aquatic Therapy. Supported by the buoyancy of the 90-93 degree water, patients are able to perform therapies that increase strength and muscle tone, range of motion and mobility; all while decreasing pain and improving overall well being. Listen in as Kelly Billings, Alegent Health Pysical Therapist and Paula Lens, breast cancer survivor, share their personal experiences with this form of breast cancer therapy.

Is breast cancer hereditary? Listen in as Alegent Health Cancer Genetics Nurse, Twila Westercamp, discusses how genetics can play a role in developing the disease. This week's other guest is Carrie, a breast cancer survivor whose immediate family members have also suffered from cancer.

Every Woman Matters is a program designed to help those who can't help themselves. The program is for women 40 through 64 years of age, who have limited or no health insurance, and have a low or medium income. Since its inception in 1991, EWM has screened 60,253 women and diagnosed 781 breast cancers. EWM marketing specialist, Tracy Bono and Susan G. Komen Executive director, Lynette Farhart, are this week's guests.

Lympedema is the chronic swelling of a body part which affects millions world-wide. Usually, Lympedema happens after cancer surgery or radiation therapy. More than three million breast cancer patients are expected to experience the condition, and anyone who has had cancer treatment that has affected the lymph nodes is at risk. Alegent Health Occupational Therapist Rachel Clasemann, and breast cancer survivor, Loretta, are this week's guests. Listen in as they share their experiences and talk about treatment for this condition.

Reconstructive surgery is an integral part of breast cancer treatment. It can improve physical appearance as well promote a sense of wellness for both the patient and her family. Alegent Health plastic surgeon, Dr. Nagi Ayoub, explains the many reconstructive options and how recent surgical improvements are providing patients with better results. Chris and Nancy, breast cancer survivors, join Dr. Ayoub to share their stories.

A healthy diet is an important part of cancer treatment. Good eating habits during cancer care help patients cope with the effects of the cancer and its treatment. An Alegent Health dietician and a breast cancer survivor talks about how eating the right kinds of foods before, during, and after treatment can help patients feel better and stay stronger.

Mrs. Nebraska 2007, Michele Strom talks about her passion for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation and how she is using her unique opportunity to help the fight against breast cancer. Also joining the discussion are Lynette Farhart, the Nebraska chapter of Susan G. Komen for the Cure executive director, and Adrianne Wemmert, R.N., B.S.N., mission specialist.

This week's guests are Rissy Smith, Alegent Health Cancer Support Services coordinator, and Donna, a breast cancer survivor. The Alegent Health Cancer Support Team offers assistance to each patient and family dealing with cancer.

Hear from Kris Wiley, a certified life coach, as she discusses the Alegent Health Life Coaching Center and the advantages of group coaching sessions. Barbara, a life coach participant, explains how the program has changed her outlook on life, both in the workplace and at home.

An Alegent Health nurse navigator and a cancer survivor share their experiences with the Nurse Navigator Program. The nurse navigator is an oncology certified nurse who is the single point of contact for patients and families. The nurse navigator can assist with scheduling initial tests and consultations. They also collaborate with members of the medical team to ensure information is current and understood by all of the physicians, nurses and other team members.

An Alegent Health Physical Therapist and breast cancer survivor talk about how they became involved in the program. Learn how exercise can help fight fatigue and various forms of complementary therapies Alegent Health offers to breast cancer survivors including - Yoga, T’ai Chi, Massage & Meditation.

Just like people, breast cancer is unique and standard forms of treatment including Chemotherapy aren't always the answer. Hear from a breast cancer survivor on her personal journey from early detection through post-treatment. Alegent Health surgeon Dr. Janet Grange also comments on various new breakthroughs treatments including hormonal therapy that allow women and men to survive this disease without surgery.

Hear from a cancer survivor along with a clinical cosmetologist as they explain how the Image Recovery Center fuses medical knowledge with cosmetology to help patients deal with the often devastating side effects of cancer treatment including its influence on self-image and appearance.

Co-founders of this local program funded by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure discuss the holistic program that offers post-cancer care. Learn about common issues breast cancer survivors often are left to deal with including fatigue, emotional struggles and physical side effects.

Executive director, Lynette Farhart, mission specialist, Adrianne Wemmert, R.N., B.S.N. and nurse practitioner Natalie Mandolfo, talk about the Susan G Komen for the Cure, the world's largest and most progressive grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists. The women take a look back at the early years and discuss the inspiration behind the foundation.