Thompson Cancer Survival Center

09/01/2026

Education is one of the many ways we improve cancer care across East Tennessee. Thank you, Dr. Newman, for sharing your expertise and helping keep our care teams informed on the latest guidelines and advancements!

08/31/2026

Thanks to Big Kahuna Labor Day Festival for sharing this touching story! It's a great reminder of the incredible impact our teams make on every patient we serve...inside and outside of the clinic.

08/18/2026

Did you catch Dr. David Penberthy on Living East Tennessee this morning?

In addition to giving a glimpse into his role as executive medical director of our oncology program, he shared how the Big Kahuna Labor Day Festival is doing more than serving up great food. Funds raised there help support cancer patients right here in East Tennessee through the Thompson Cancer Survival Center Foundation.

We're proud to partner with an event that combines community, compassion, and a lot of great wings. We hope to see you Labor Day weekend!

08/06/2026

Behind every cancer journey is someone helping patients navigate the road ahead.

Please join us in congratulating Shila Newman, RN, OCN, ONN-CG, oncology nurse navigator, for being named our latest DAISY Award® recipient.

Shila was nominated by a patient who shared how her compassion, advocacy, and dedication made a meaningful difference during a difficult time. Through every question, appointment, and next step, Shila provided support, guidance, and reassurance when it was needed most.

This recognition reflects what so many patients and colleagues already know...Shila goes above and beyond to ensure every patient feels cared for.

Congratulations, Shila, and thank you for the difference you make every day. 💜🌼

08/03/2026

We recently had the opportunity to recognize Chance Roach, CMA, with Covenant Health Oncology Group in Morristown, as the latest recipient of the Rob Sanders Award.

Chance was nominated for the extraordinary compassion he shows patients every day.
When a patient nearing the end of life shared how much he missed working on cars, Chance didn't just listen. He went out and purchased a model car kit so the patient could continue enjoying a hobby that had brought him so much joy.

When another patient felt so alone during treatment that she considered stopping care altogether, Chance pulled up a chair and sat with her throughout her infusion, making sure she knew she didn't have to face the journey by herself.

These moments may never appear in a medical chart, but they can mean everything to a patient and family.

Thank you, Chance, for reminding us that healing happens in many ways. Your compassion, empathy, and willingness to go above and beyond make a difference every single day.

Please join us in congratulating Chance on this well-deserved recognition! 👏💙

07/23/2026

Have you ever wondered about the risks of microplastics and whether or not they cause cancer? WVLT interviewed Dr. Susan Newman about the health risks associated with microplastics, including its connection to cancer diagnoses.

Researchers are now examining a possible link between microplastics and cancer. Steps you can take to keep your family safe >>https://tinyurl.com/5ea9jpwb

07/09/2026

Check out the latest episode of Covenant Health Conversations featuring radiation oncologist David Penberthy, MD, and medical oncologist Susan Newman, MD.🎙️

Welcome to Covenant Health Conversations, a video podcast featuring stories and insights from across our health system. In this episode, radiation oncologist David Penberthy, MD, and medical oncologist Susan Newman, MD, discuss the evolving landscape of cancer care, the importance of prevention and....

07/03/2026

🫶Many thanks to Grayson Pursch and all our friends with Bosom Buddies at West End Church of Christ!🫶 They prepare themed gift bags each season with supportive, inspirational and fun items to share with our cancer patients in treatment. Thank you for spreading joy! 🥰

06/30/2026

This month, we had the privilege of celebrating our Ambassador Program at our monthly ambassador event. We proudly welcomed new ambassadors and enjoyed meaningful time connecting with those who have been part of the program.

Our Ambassador Program empowers former patients to share their strength, hope, and support with others navigating their own cancer journey. Their stories make a difference—offering comfort, encouragement, and a reminder that no one has to face cancer alone.

We are deeply grateful for the compassion and commitment these individuals so generously give to others.💙

06/23/2026

We'd like to introduce you to Thomas. 💙

He first came to our Morristown office to sit with his “Mimi” during infusions. It didn’t take long for Thomas to become part of our family.

Thomas loves keys, cars, and helping others. More than anything, he loves making people smile. Whether he’s chatting with staff, offering a snack, or giving a hug, he brings joy everywhere he goes.

Before long, our team was looking forward to his visits. You could find him walking through the hospital, making new friends and asking how he could help.

On June 19, Thomas was surprised with an Honorary Volunteer for Life recognition. Surrounded by his mom, Mimi, and our infusion team, he received his vest, badge, and a very important role: to make others happy.

He takes that job seriously. And he reminds us every day why we do what we do.