Nassif Community Cancer Center

06/12/2026

At the Nassif Community Cancer Center, one group of women have formed a strong bond in survivorship. While they’ve had different journeys, their shared experience with cancer has brought them together, though it doesn’t define them.

At the Nassif Community Cancer Center, one group of women support each other through survivorship and through life.

06/11/2026

We recently had the opportunity to host a Gems of Hope workshop with the residents at Aura Independent Living. Thank you to all who joined us for helping make a difference in the lives of local cancer patients!

Interested in hosting a workshop for your business or organization? Submit a request here >> https://bit.ly/RequestAGOHWorkshop

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Description of images: Four photos from a “Gems of Hope” workshop at Aura Independent Living in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, showing participants gathered in small groups around tables in a community room. The top image shows three women seated together at a table working on small craft kits with beads and materials spread out in front of them, appearing engaged and smiling. The three lower images show additional groups of participants working together on the same type of hands-on creative activity. Across all photos, participants are actively assembling and organizing craft materials, sharing conversation, and engaging in a social, supportive, and creative workshop environment.

06/10/2026

This week, Mona Cook, BSN, RN, CBCN, care coordinator, celebrated a major milestone - 45 years with UnityPoint Health - Cedar Rapids and the Nassif Community Cancer Center!

"Mona's dedication and compassion have touched the lives of countless patients and families over the past 45 years," said Maureen McEvoy, manager of cancer services. "For 30 years as a breast care coordinator, she has been a steady source of support, guidance and reassurance for patients facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Her commitment to patient-centered care is evident in every interaction, and her impact on our patients, team and community is immeasurable. We are incredibly grateful for her service and the difference she continues to make every day."

Thank you, Mona, for four and a half decades of exceptional care!

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Image description: Recognition graphic featuring a portrait of Mona Cook. Text congratulates Mona, a care coordinator at the Nassif Community Cancer Center, on 45 years of service with UnityPoint Health and the Community Cancer Center.

06/07/2026

Today, on , we celebrate all of the amazing survivors in the communities we serve. Their stories of incredible strength and perseverance are an inspiration to us all.

Learn about the journeys of some of our survivors here --> https://bit.ly/HGNCCCPatientStories

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Image Description: A graphic says "National Cancer Survivors Day" with the Nassif Community Cancer Center logo and photos of cancer survivors.

06/05/2026

Cancer care shouldn’t be defined by how far you live from a city. On Rural Cancer Awareness Day, we recognize the unique challenges rural communities face when it comes to cancer prevention, treatment and survivorship.

At the Nassif Community Cancer Center, we're committed to bringing high-quality cancer care closer to home. Through our dedicated local care team, specialized partnerships and transportation assistance supported in part by the Community Cancer Center Spirit Fund and a grant from the American Cancer Society, we're helping reduce barriers to care.

We're also reaching communities across Eastern Iowa through our Community Cancer Education Program, sharing information about cancer screenings, nutrition, exercise and prevention to help reduce cancer risk and support early detection.

Because everyone deserves the right support and care—right where they live. 💛

Learn more about patient support >> https://bit.ly/HGNPatientSupport
Learn more about the Community Cancer Education Program >> https://bit.ly/CommunityCancerEducationProgram

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Image descriptions:
1. A woman participates in a supervised exercise session using a leg press machine in a rehabilitation gym. Matt Schmitz, cancer exercise specialist, stands beside her, offering instruction and support.
2. Melissa Janssen, genetics nurse practitioner, sits at a table and writes notes while speaking with a patient. The patient is seated nearby and engaged in the conversation.
3. Dr. Jessica Parkhurst, radiation oncologist, sits across from a patient and a companion in a clinic office. The provider smiles while engaging in conversation, creating a welcoming and supportive environment.

06/03/2026

A simple question sparked a research project that is now helping support cancer patients at the Nassif Community Cancer Center.

Learn how a collaboration between cancer care providers, palliative care and Coe College students explored the use of cryotherapy to help reduce chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy — and how the findings are already impacting patient care.

Read more 👇

A simple question helped spark a research project at the Community Cancer Center that is helping support cancer patients during chemotherapy.

05/29/2026

Congratulations to several St. Luke's Nassif Radiation Center team members who were recently recognized with Guardian Angel Awards!

From their nominator: Thank you for the incredible expertise, compassion, and care you provide every day. From the very beginning, you made a difficult situation feel manageable. I may be able to rig up a tractor, but I sure can’t cure cancer — and seeing the skill and teamwork you bring to your patients every day is truly remarkable. Thank you for the kindness, the laughs, and the way you made treatment feel less overwhelming and even enjoyable at times. We will never forget it!

Team members honored: Michael, Auburn, Kelli, Amanda, Joan, Lisa, Abby, Cheryl, Mian, Ali and Dr. Jessica Parkhurst.

The Guardian Angel program gives patients and families the opportunity to make a donation in appreciation of a physician, team member, volunteer or department that made a difference in their healthcare experience. Would you like to recognize one of our caregivers? Nominate them for a Guardian Angel Award! >> https://bit.ly/HGNCCC-GuardianAngel

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Image description: Radiation center team members pose together in a conference room while being recognized as Guardian Angels.

05/27/2026

What classes would you like to see added to our exercise class schedule? Join us for Trial Tuesdays this June at the Nassif Community Cancer Center!

Each Tuesday, patients can try a different exercise class and share feedback to help shape future programming. Classes will be held Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m. – Noon in the Wellness Center.

Trial Tuesday Schedule:
• June 2 – Strong Bodies, Better Bones (Beginner)
• June 9 – Beginner Pilates
• June 16 – Strong Bodies, Better Bones with Acceleration
• June 23 – Mat Pilates (Intermediate)
• June 30 – Chair Dancing

Learn more at communitycancercenter.org/events.

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Image description: Graphic announcing "Trial Tuesdays" where patients can try a new class each Tuesday in June and provide feedback on which classes they'd like added to the regular schedule. The design includes a photo of a woman exercising, the center’s logo and website, and a purple background.

05/25/2026

The Nassif Community Cancer Center is closed today in honor of Memorial Day. All classes and open gym are cancelled.

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Image description: Graphic stating the Nassif Community Cancer Center is closed for Memorial Day and that all classes and open gym are cancelled. The design includes American flags, the center’s logo and website, and a purple background.

05/22/2026

For those who are craving a spicy snack, these quick and easy buffalo cauliflower bites are oncology-dietitian approved!

Cook Time: 25 minutes 4 servings Ingredients: Instructions: Notes: To cook cauliflower in an oven, bake in a single layer at 450°F (230°C) for about 25 minutes. Makes 4 servings […]