Upstate Cancer Center

06/02/2026

Huge congratulations to Jackie Epp (left) and Lindsay Rudy (right) on becoming the newest members of our downtown Infusion Department to earn their OCN certification! 🌟

This achievement perfectly reflects their passion for hematology/oncology nursing. Jackie and Lindsay's patients benefit every day from their specialized knowledge, clinical expertise, and heartfelt compassion. We're so proud of you both! 🎉

06/01/2026

No excuses...make your breast health a priority this June!

The Upstate Mammo Van is hitting the road throughout Central New York, bringing mammography screenings directly to local communities. Early detection saves lives, and getting your annual mammogram has never been easier.

Visit upstate.edu/noexcuses or call (315) 464-2588 to schedule your appointment or learn more.

Tag a friend who may be due for a mammogram!

05/31/2026

Today is World No To***co Day, and a reminder that quitting to***co is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health.

To***co use is linked to many types of cancer and other serious diseases, but it’s never too late to quit. No matter where you are in your journey, support is available, and every step forward matters.

We’re here to help you take that first step toward a healthier, smoke-free future. Learn more about our To***co Cessation Program here: https://www.upstate.edu/cancer/cancer-care/support/to***co-cessation.php

05/29/2026

Groundbreaking bladder cancer treatment is now available right here at Upstate, and our own Dr. Joseph Jacob helped make it happen!

Upstate Urology’s Dr. Joseph Jacob helped lead the global clinical trials behind a newly FDA-approved bladder cancer treatment, and now eligible patients can access this innovative therapy right here at Upstate.

Read on to learn how this innovative treatment could change the lives of bladder cancer patients.

Clinical trial led by Upstate physician helped bring breakthrough bladder cancer treatment to patients.

05/28/2026

During Cancer Research Month, we’re proud to highlight Dr. Kiranya Arnold, Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology at SUNY Upstate Medical University.

Dr. Arnold’s work focuses on improving outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer. In addition to caring for patients as a surgeon, she currently leads a clinical trial studying the best ways to prevent blood clots after head and neck cancer surgery. She is also part of a research study exploring how immunotherapy may help treat certain skin cancers.

Dr. Arnold completed advanced research and surgical training across the United States and Australia before returning to Upstate in 2023 to continue her work in patient care and cancer research.

Thank you, Dr. Arnold, for your dedication to advancing cancer treatment and improving the lives of patients in our community.

05/27/2026

May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re proudly wearing gray to support patients, survivors, families, caregivers, and everyone impacted by brain cancer. 🩶

Our Neuro Oncology team is dedicated to providing compassionate, multidisciplinary care while advancing hope through research, treatment, and support services.

Go gray in May with us! Learn more about our Neuro Oncology Program here: https://www.upstate.edu/cancer/cancer-care/programs/neuro-oncology/index.php

05/26/2026

Living with incurable cancer can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Join our support group, a welcoming space to connect with others who understand.

Our next meeting is:
🗓 Wednesday, May 27
🕐 1:00 – 2:00 PM
📍 Upstate Cancer Center, Conference Room C1076 A/B/C
💻 Virtual option available via Webex

To register, please email:
Carolyn Walker – [email protected]
or Tracey Glidden - [email protected]

05/26/2026

Don't miss the latest episode of WCNY's Cycle of Health featuring Upstate Cancer Center’s Clinical Trial Manager, Erinn McDowell! Erinn joins the panel for an honest conversation about living with a terminal diagnosis and how clinical trials provide patients with empowering new options and renewed hope.

With May being National Cancer Research Month, this episode is a powerful reminder of how research expands options and redefines care.

Watch this meaningful conversation here ➡️ https://video.wcny.org/video/living-well-with-a-terminal-diagnosis-jn49cf/

📷: Left to right: Dr. Rich O'Neill, Lynn Seagren Bass, Dr. Gregory Eastwood, and Erinn McDowell, MS CCRP.

05/25/2026

Cancer Center Chaplain's Corner: As Memorial Day weekend comes to a close, we continue to reflect on the meaning of this important time of remembrance. Memorial Day is a time to honor and mourn those who served and died in the Armed Forces of the United States.

Every year, beginning in early May, I remember my grandfather talking about Decoration Day – the original name for Memorial Day. He was born on Decoration Day, and the day always had great meaning for him. And not just because it was his birthday. He spoke of going to the cemetery to honor those who died in service to the country and decorate their graves. He also talked about his grandfather, who served in the Civil War, and decorating his grave as well.

I went to the cemetery a few days ago and visited the grave where my father is buried. He served in the Korean War. Afterwards, I looked about and saw large numbers of graves that were marked with American Flags in their honor for Memorial Day. I stopped at many of them and read the inscriptions on their headstones. The names of people who had served and died in the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Others who had served in war and survived.

Let us think about the sacrifice that so many people have made for our country and hold them in our hearts and prayers. Each of them has been a blessing to their families and loved ones, and their deaths are a cause for mourning and grief. As we honor the sacrifice of these veterans, we lift up their loved ones in thought and prayer, too.

At the same time, I know that it is also a day when we reflect on our own losses - family members and friends, those we love who have died. We miss them greatly and reflect on their place in our lives. May memories of them be a blessing to you.

If there’s someone you’ve lost or have been remembering, Chaplain Kate and I would love to have an opportunity to talk with you about them. We’re here in the Cancer Center – just ask your nurse or provider to reach out to Spiritual Care, and we’ll stop by. If you prefer, you can call us at x4-4687 (315.464.4687). We look forward to meeting you. Peace be with you on this Memorial Day.

- Chaplain Tom

05/22/2026

It’s “Don’t Fry Day,” and a reminder to protect your skin while enjoying the sunshine! A little sun safety can go a long way in reducing your risk of skin cancer. 😎

Stay sun safe by:
✅ Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
✅ Reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating
✅ Wearing a wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses
✅ Seeking shade between 10 am and 4 pm
✅ Wearing lightweight long sleeves when possible
✅ Avoiding indoor tanning beds

Learn more here: https://www.epa.gov/sunsafety/dont-fry-day