Spring 2010 - Karmanos Cancer Institute

HOPESpring 2010
A P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E B A R B A R A A N N K A R M A N O S C A N C E R I N S T I T U T E
INSIDE:
FIGHTING
CANCER
WITHOUT FEAR
Top-notch
cancer care
LOCAL
METEOROLOGIST
OVERCOMES
CANCER
Early detection
is key
ADVANCING
CANCER SCIENCE
Partners invest in
scientific research

PRESIDENT’S LETTER
Dear Friends,
I am extremely honored to serve as the president and chief executive officer
of the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute.
Since joining Karmanos Feb. 1, I have personally seen how the institution
lives up to its reputation for world-class cancer care and cutting-edge
scientific research. Oncologists and other medical professionals have long
been aware of scientific advancements made here, such as the development
of new cancer-fighting drugs that have gone on to receive FDA approval
by the U.S. government. This translates into having advanced treatment
options and therapies for our patients.
I came to Karmanos because I want to lead and be associated with an
institution that will make a significant impact on cancer. Judging from
what I’ve seen so far, I know I am in the right place.
Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D
President & Chief Executive Officer
John C. Ruckdeschel, M.D.
ON THE COVER
PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER When David Lepper was diagnosed with an
BARBARA ANN KARMANOS CANCER INSTITUTE aggressive cancer that affects the head and
neck area, he knew he wanted to be treated
at the Karmanos Cancer Center. Following
surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, he has
been cancer-free for six years.
(Read more on pages 4–5)
Cover image by Stephen Lengnick, Plum Street Studio
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SPRING 2010
VOLUME 6 | NUMBER 1
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ABOUT Karmanos
The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
is one of only 40 National Cancer
Institute-designated comprehensive cancer
centers in the United States. Federal designation
as a comprehensive cancer center is the
pinnacle of translational oncology research.
...................................................
EXECUTIVE STAFF
Gerold bepler, m.d., Ph.D.
President and Chief Executive Officer
Ann G. Schwartz, Ph.D., MPH
Executive Vice President/Deputy Director
George Yoo, m.d., facs
Chief Medical Officer
GARY MORRISON
Chief Operating Officer
Cynthia K. Sikina
Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer
Nick Karmanos
Vice President, Development
...................................................
Karmanos Cancer Institute
Board of Directors
Alan S. Schwartz, Chair
Randolph J. Agley, Vice Chair
Charles E. Becker, Lead Vice Chair
Richard M. Gabrys, Vice Chair
W. James Prowse, Vice Chair
Jonathan S. Aaron
Eugene Applebaum
Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D. (ex officio)
Paul Borman
Armando R. Cavazos
Stephen D’Arcy (ex officio)
Debbie Dingell
Joseph Dresner
David W. Drews
Michael E. Duggan
Lillian Erdeljan
Michael Ferrantino, Jr.
Nathan Forbes
Stanley Frankel
Myron Frasier
Bruce A. Gershenson
Adnan Hammad, Ph.D.
Patricia Hartmann
David Jacob
Charles E. Becker, Chair
Timothy Monahan, Vice Chair
Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D. (ex officio)
Leslie C. Bowman
Armando R. Cavazos
Kenneth Eisenberg
Myron Frasier
Thomas A. Goss
S. Scott Hunter
Denise Ilitch
(as of 4/15/10)
Eleanor M. Josaitis
Peter Karmanos, Jr.
C. Michael Kojaian
Edward C. Levy, Jr.
Mary Matuja
Timothy Monahan
Paul L. Nine
Jay Noren, M.D., MPH (ex officio)
Thomas D. Ogden
Fred D. Olson
Valerie M. Parisi, M.D. (ex officio)
Hilary Ratner, Ph.D.
Eunice Ring
Richard F. Roth
Gary Sakwa
Nazli G. Sater
Marc R. Schechter
Nettie H. Seabrooks
Nedda N. Shayota
Robert A. Stone
David Trott
Vainutis K. Vaitkevicius, M.D.
Nancy Yaw
Karmanos Cancer Center
Board of Directors
Valerie M. Parisi, M.D. (ex officio)
W. James Prowse
Anthony J. Rusciano
Alan S. Schwartz (ex officio)
Nettie H. Seabrooks
Maureen L. Stapleton
Jane R. Thomas, Ph.D.
Manuel Valdivieso, M.D.
Antoinette J. Wozniak, M.D. (ex officio)
George Yoo, M.D. (ex officio)

06
CONTENTS
2 FEATURES
A NEW WAY FORWARD
New president & CEO poised to take
Karmanos to next level
10
FIGHTING CANCER WITHOUT FEAR
“The doctors at Karmanos are amazing.”
– Cancer survivor David Lepper
THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DETECTION
WDIV Local 4 meteorologist shares his success story
8 COMPASSIONATE CARE
GETTING THE RIGHT DIAGNOSIS
Identifying environmentally caused cancers
12
DRIVING FORCE
Pancreatic cancer survivor forms
Sky Foundation to further research and awareness
12 AT KARMANOS
A PARTY IN PINK
Karmanos presents Komen Detroit Race for the Cure®
UP CLOSE
Connie Claybaker, B.A., MBA
Vice President of Research Administration
WE ALL START SOMEWHERE
Medical staff talks about first jobs
18
ADVANCING CANCER SCIENCE
The Partners – a dedicated group of volunteers raising funds
20 AROUND TOWN
21 Kroger’s Acts of Kindness
A tremendous force in the fight against cancer

HOPE | FEATURE
A New Way
On Feb. 1, the Karmanos Cancer Institute entered
a new era as it introduced Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D.,
as its new president and chief executive officer. Dr. Bepler
is a noted thoracic oncologist who was previously director
of the Comprehensive Lung Cancer Center at the Moffitt
Cancer Center in Tampa, Fla.
Dr. Bepler spoke with HOPE about his vision for
Karmanos and the future of cancer care. He also offered a
glimpse of his personal life and how he entered medicine.
Q: What attracted you to the position? Why did you want
to lead Karmanos?
A: My goal has always been to lead an institution that is
solely focused on cancer care. But I didn’t want it to be
just anywhere – I wanted to go to a place that can make
a significant impact on cancer. Karmanos is one of those
places. It offers solid clinical care, it has all the elements
to discover new cancer therapies and it has the tools to
translate those therapies directly to patient care.
Q: What are your top priorities as
the new President and CEO?
A: First, to develop the next generation
of cancer treatments.
Second, given the uniqueness
of our patient demographics,
reduce cancer disparities. Third,
facilitate access to top of the
line cancer care, for example, by
bringing the latest advances in
cancer care closer to home
for suburban patients at our
treatment center in Farmington
Hills, the Karmanos-Crittenton
Cancer Center in Rochester
Hills, and the Huron Valley-
Sinai Hospital Charach
Cancer Treatment Center in
Commerce. Construction begins
2 | HOPE
Forward
New President and CEO is Poised to Take Karmanos to the Next Level
GEROLD BEPLER, M.D., Ph.D.
Title:
President and Chief Executive Officer
Age: 53
Birthplace: Giessen, Germany
Education:
M.D., Ph.D., Philipps University School of
Medicine and Dentistry, Marburg, Germany.
Postdoctoral fellowships completed at the
National Cancer Institute, Philipps University
and the Duke University Medical Center.
Current residence:
Bloomfield Township
Family:
Wife, Tracey; children Tristan, 18,
Breiton, 12, Isabelle, 9, and Christian, 6.
Hobbies:
Family activities, do-it-yourself home
repairs and projects.
Favorite composers and musicians:
Beethoven, J.S. Bach, Schubert, the Red Hot
Chili Peppers, Queen, Phil Collins, Sting,
and Sarah Brightman.
soon for another cancer center in Monroe. We want to
leverage these outreach initiatives to bring the next generation
of cancer care to patients across the region.
Q: Can you describe your current research efforts?
A: I’m focused on discovering and validating molecules
useful for therapeutic decision making in patients, which
is often called personalized medicine. An increasing
amount of information is available about the molecular
profile of tumors and we have better tools to analyze
those tumors. Together, these components will ultimately
lead to better up-front selection of cancer treatments
for each patient; i.e., to avoid potential toxicity from
less effective treatment and to achieve maximum effect
of available therapies.
Q: How will Karmanos elevate its care to the next level?
A: We’ll place a priority on building team science –
bringing scientists with different areas of expertise
together for group research projects. This follows the
same concept as our multidisciplinary
team approach to cancer
treatment, only from a research
perspective. We will apply for
team science grants, such as
the National Cancer Institutesponsored
SPORE (Specialized
Program of Research Excellence)
grants, which are intended to
support a strong collaboration
between scientists and clinicians.
These collaborations will foster
research that can be translated
into improved cancer diagnosis
and treatment.
Q: In your view, what separates
Karmanos from other hospitals
in our area that also provide
cancer treatment?

HOPE | FEATURE
Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D
A: Karmanos is one of only 40 National Cancer Institutedesignated
comprehensive cancer centers in the United
States. As part of this, we offer a Phase I Clinical Trials
Program [which tests newly developed cancer-fighting
drugs]. Dr. Patricia LoRusso, who leads the program,
has helped build it into one of the best Phase I
programs in the world. Karmanos patients have access
to new medications that are not available at community
hospitals. We can match patients to a particular clinical
trial, which is part of our personalized medicine model.
Q: What inspired you to become a doctor?
A: When I was growing up, I wanted to be a musician,
not a physician. I played the piano and wound up studying
at the music conservatory in Frankfurt. But I soon realized
I’d never reach the level of the other students around me.
I had always liked mathematics, biology and physics, so
I gravitated toward medicine. One of my idols was Albert
Schweitzer, a musician and theologian who became a
physician (http://www.albertschweitzer.info).
Q: Why did you choose to enter oncology?
A: Oncology was intellectually stimulating. There wasn’t
as much known about cancer at the time. I thought it
was an incredible challenge. Combining molecular
biology with basic science and patient care is fascinating.
Q: Why did you decide to practice medicine in the United
States instead of your native country?
A: The opportunities are much greater in the U.S. than in
Germany. There are many top-notch universities and
research facilities here. And the U.S. has always been at
the forefront of cancer research.
Q: Has anyone in your family been touched by cancer?
A: Yes. My grandfather died of leukemia, and my father
has leukemia. He’s doing well, and I continue to provide
long-distance care to him.
Q: What message do you want to relay to Karmanos patients
and their families?
A: There is hope. Newly-diagnosed patients have many
different treatment options today – there are new
ways to approach the disease through surgery and
radiological intervention, and there are new cancerfighting
drugs. We’re making new discoveries every
day, which will one day lead to the end of this disease.
HOPE | 3 HOPE | 3

HOPE | FEATURE
Fighting Cancer
without Fear
Karmanos Physicians Help Patient
Face the Disease with Confidence
“People shouldn’t be afraid of
cancer, because in many cases it
can be successfully treated. There
are great therapies available
for cancer patients today.
And the doctors at Karmanos
are amazing.
— David Lepper
4 | HOPE

HOPE | FEATURE
At first, David Lepper thought the small bump
just below his right ear was nothing to worry about.
“My doctor noted it during my annual physical,” says
Lepper, 57, a fundraising consultant from Trenton. “It
was a small, hard bump about the size of a pea. My doctor
thought it was best to have a biopsy performed, and I’m
sure glad I did.”
In July 2003, Lepper’s radiologist performed a biopsy and
diagnosed him with parotid mucoepidermoid carcinoma,
an aggressive cancer that affects the head and neck area.
After receiving the diagnosis, Lepper knew exactly where
he wanted to go for treatment.
“I referred myself to the Karmanos Cancer Center because
I had previously worked in its Development Department,”
he says. “I knew a lot about the high level of care
Karmanos physicians provide. I felt very comfortable going
there, knowing that I’d receive top-notch care.”
Lepper says he was especially impressed by Karmanos’
multidisciplinary team approach to patient care. Specialists
from each diagnostic, treatment and supportive care
discipline comprise 13 multidisciplinary teams (MDTs)
to ensure that patients are properly diagnosed and receive
the very best treatment. This approach is part of what makes
Karmanos one of 40 National Cancer Institute-designated
comprehensive cancer centers in the United States.
Lepper and his wife met with representatives from
Karmanos’ Head & Neck Oncology Multidisciplinary Team.
“I really appreciated the fact that Karmanos brought the
team together to discuss my case,” Lepper says. “They helped
me feel confident in my decision to undergo surgery.”
In August 2003, John Jacobs, M.D., professor of otolaryngology
at Karmanos and Wayne State University School
of Medicine, performed a complicated five-hour procedure
to remove the tumor from Lepper’s parotid gland. Doing
so required great precision because of the gland’s proximity
to the facial nerve.
“It’s a tricky procedure,” Dr. Jacobs says. “Typically, you
create a flap of skin and elevate it off the patient’s face, then
find the facial nerve. Only then do you remove the tumor.
Damage to the facial nerve can cause your mouth
to droop or prevent you from closing an eye – it would
appear as if you’d had a stroke. With the improvements
made in chemotherapy and radiation therapy, we’ve been
able to perform more conservative surgeries. In David’s case,
we removed the tumor while preserving nerve function.”
Lepper’s tumor was larger than it appeared on the surface
– about 1-1/2 centimeters, or the size of a cherry.
“This type of cancer is not very common,” Dr. Jacobs says.
“There are roughly 40,000 new head and neck cancers
diagnosed in the U.S. each year, and mucoepidermoid is
just a small fraction of that number. Still, it’s regarded as a
high-grade lesion. If unchecked, the tumor can continue
to grow, paralyzing the face and possibly spreading to the
lungs and brain. That’s why it’s critical to get an early
diagnosis. With few exceptions, if the cancer is caught
early enough, we have the tools to help.”
After surgery, Lepper received six months of aggressive
chemotherapy and radiation therapy to destroy any remnant
of the cancer. Since he worked for the Wayne State
University School of Medicine at the time, Lepper usually
walked to his radiation appointments. Finally, in June 2004,
doctors told Lepper he was cancer-free.
“I felt so great at that moment,” Lepper says. “I continue
going to Karmanos for my regular checkups, and there’s
been no sign of cancer for six years. I have some minor
numbness in my ear, but otherwise, I feel wonderful.”
Lepper says battling cancer taught him the importance of
setting fear aside and maintaining a positive attitude.
“I’ve always been a pretty positive person, and I had great
confidence in the physicians at Karmanos,” he says. “People
shouldn’t be afraid of cancer, because in many cases it can
be successfully treated. There are great therapies available
for cancer patients today. And the doctors at Karmanos
are amazing. They’re hard-working people who really care
about their patients.”
To learn more about cancer screening and diagnosis or to
make an appointment, call 1-800-KARMANOS.
HOPE | 5

HOPE | FEATURE
The Importance of
Early Detection
WDIV Local 4 Meteorologist Shares
His Story about Battling Testicular Cancer
Twenty-one years ago, Paul Gross thought he’d be
the least likely person to contract cancer.
“I worked out regularly and had a low-fat, high-fiber
diet,” says Gross, meteorologist and executive producer
of weather on WDIV-TV in Detroit. “I was just 27 at
the time. So when I learned I had cancer, it was surprising.
I went through a roller coaster of emotions.”
Gross’ urologist diagnosed him with an aggressive form
of testicular cancer. And as with many cases of the disease,
Gross felt no pain.
“I noticed that my left testicle was getting larger and my
jeans were getting tighter in that area,” Gross says. “I didn’t
even know you could get cancer there, but I knew it was
important to have it checked out.”
Gross’ academic training helped him take a scientific
approach to tackling his disease. He has a Bachelor of
Science degree from the University of Michigan’s
Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Space Science.
“I learned that my type of cancer cell was very responsive
to the chemotherapy that was available,” he says. “I just
dove into treatment and focused on solving the problem.”
In February 1989, Gross underwent surgery, and then
four rounds of aggressive chemotherapy to destroy a
secondary tumor located in the lymph nodes behind his
left kidney. He was treated at a Detroit hospital affiliated
with the Michigan Cancer Foundation, now known as the
Karmanos Cancer Center.
“The chemo worked very well,” Gross says. “Within two
days of treatment, I could literally feel the tumor shrinking.
I continued with regular checkups every six months. Finally,
11 years after the initial diagnosis, my oncologist looked over
my blood work and discharged me. I was always confident
that I’d beat the disease. Being discharged brought a sense
of finality and created a kind of exclamation point. I could
move forward with my life.”
Dangerous, but Curable
Compared with other cancers, testicular cancer is rare.
But it is still the most common form of solid tumor cancer
in American males between the ages of 15 and 34, says
Ulka Vaishampayan, M.D., team leader of Karmanos’
Genitourinary Oncology Multidisciplinary Team and
associate professor of internal medicine at the Wayne State
University School of Medicine.
“Very few patients present with testicular pain – just
swelling in that area,” Dr. Vaishampayan says. “Because
this type of cancer is so aggressive, it’s very important to
have any testicular mass checked right away. The mass can
become much larger within a month or two.”
Dr. Vaishampayan adds that testicular cancer is among
the more treatable forms of cancer even in the advanced
stages, but the cure rate is much better when the cancer
is caught early.
“This type of tumor is very sensitive to chemotherapy and
radiation therapy,” she says. “The chances of being cured
drop when the disease is detected at an advanced stage. But
on average, about 75 percent of patients can be completely
cured. It’s essential that patients see a urologist with an
expertise in oncology and seek treatment at a place that
offers a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.”
A common misconception about testicular cancer is that
a man cannot lead a normal life after treatment,
Dr. Vaishampayan says.
“There is a chance that a man cannot have children following
chemotherapy, but this is not common,” she says. “This is
one cancer that is a prime example of research making a huge
difference in people’s lives and these young men, if treated
correctly, have a very high possibility of leading normal,
productive lives. One example is the case of [cyclist] Lance
Armstrong. He maintained his athletic capacity after treatment
for testicular cancer. Men like him who are willing to
speak about this disease are a source of inspiration for others.”
6 | HOPE

HOPE | FEATURE
Paul Gross
Having an Open Discussion
Since beating testicular cancer, Gross, like Armstrong, has
supported efforts to raise awareness about the disease. In June,
Gross will be the emcee of Karmanos’ sixth-annual Survivorship
Celebration, which honors cancer survivors and gives
them the chance to rejoice in having beaten the disease.
“I’m honored to be the emcee of the event,” he says. “No
one is happy that they had cancer, but I’ve found something
positive to take away from the experience. If I can help
inspire one person to get through their own struggle with
cancer by telling my story, then I’ve done my job.”
Gross also says there’s no need for men to feel ashamed
about testicular cancer or avoid the subject.
“Our society has no problem talking about breast cancer,
so why should we be squeamish about discussing testicular
cancer?” Gross asks. “The fact is, it’s the most common cancer
to hit men in the prime of their lives. But it’s also curable
when caught early enough. My message is the importance
of early detection – be aware of your body and don’t be
afraid to go to the doctor. If you need treatment, effective
therapies exist.”
For more information about testicular self exams or
to make an appointment, visit www.karmanos.org or
call 1-800-KARMANOS.
Karmanos to honor
Cancer Survivors
As any cancer survivor will tell you,
beating the disease requires great
inner strength and a positive outlook. To honor survivors
and their families for their amazing resiliency and fortitude,
Karmanos is holding its sixth annual Survivorship
Celebration on June 17 from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Silver
Garden Conference Center in Southfield. WDIV
Local 4’s Paul Gross will emcee the event.
“There are always months designated toward raising
awareness of particular cancers, but those are national
in scope and more medically focused,” says Kelly Brittain,
director of Patient Community Education and Support
Services at Karmanos. “The Survivorship Celebration is an
uplifting occasion that allows Karmanos cancer survivors
and their supporters to enjoy their triumph over the
disease.” During the event, Karmanos will present the
Patricia Milner Sachs Heart of a Survivor Award to a
survivor who shows great compassion, commitment, spirit
and courage in helping others fight cancer. The award is
named after a Karmanos employee who lost her 11-year
battle with melanoma in June 2006.
The Survivorship Celebration is free and tickets are not
required. For more information about the event, call
1-800-KARMANOS or visit Karmanos.org.
HOPE | 7

COMPASSIONATE CARE
Getting the
Right Diagnosis
Karmanos Raises Awareness of Environmentally Caused Cancers
Sometimes asking the right questions makes
all the difference.
That’s what Barb Van Haren of West Bloomfield
discovered after spending years going from doctor to
doctor trying to determine the cause of a persistent cough.
Frustrated by her unresolved illness, Van Haren visited
Michael Harbut, M.D., MPH, FCCP, co-director of
Karmanos’ National Center for Vermiculite and Asbestos-
Related Cancers, and professor of internal medicine at
Wayne State University School of Medicine. As an expert
in the diagnosis and treatment of environmentally caused
cancers, Dr. Harbut asked Van Haren questions related to
possible exposure to toxins.
As it turned out, Van Haren had Stage I lung cancer,
possibly caused by exposure to asbestos as a child. Through
a mixture of clinical experience and knowledge of environmental
agents, Karmanos physicians caught Van Haren’s
cancer early enough to save her life. She underwent
surgery to remove a nodule in her right lung in May 2007.
Today she is cancer-free.
“Dr. Harbut is my guardian angel,” says Van Haren, 61. “Not
many doctors have the knowledge of environmentally caused
cancer. Several doctors I visited told me my illness was all in
my head. But Dr. Harbut really listened to me. He was very
detailed and thorough in compiling my medical history. If
he wasn’t as persistent about my case, had he not asked me
the right questions, I’d have lung cancer today.”
Environmental Factors
When Van Haren first saw Dr. Harbut about her cough in
early 2007, he performed tests that revealed chronic allergy
and inflammation issues. He placed her on antibiotics, but
also ordered a CT scan because of what he learned about
her history.
“I lived in a basement apartment in Chicago until I turned
six,” Van Haren says. “We had to walk through the furnace
room to get to our apartment, so there’s a chance that I was
exposed to asbestos. I never smoked, but my mother was
a chain smoker, so I was exposed to second-hand smoke
through age 18.”
An initial CT scan showed a nodule on Van Haren’s right
lung and doctors placed her on more antibiotics. When
a subsequent CT scan showed the nodule had grown,
Karmanos’ Thoracic Oncology Multidisciplinary Team
reviewed her case and recommended surgery. After a biopsy
showed that the nodule was cancer, Karmanos surgeons
removed the lower lobe in her right lung.
“Technically, I’ve been cancer-free since that surgery,”
Van Haren says. “Because it was caught so early, I didn’t
have to do chemo or radiation therapy. I was overwhelmed
with joy when I learned the cancer was gone.”
Raising the Standard of Care
“Mrs. Van Haren’s case is a great example of the intersection
of various disciplines that should be part of 21st
century health care,” Dr. Harbut says. “We not only applied
basic clinical science, but also epidemiology, enhanced
radiographic techniques and tenacity. We didn’t dismiss her
case – instead we kept looking to find the cause of her
symptoms. Her remote exposure to asbestos and
CT scans raised the likelihood of her having cancer.
And as the biopsy showed, it was.”
To help more physicians learn how to identify cancers
caused by environmental exposures in their earliest stages
or before they begin, in January Dr. Harbut created and
launched Karmanos’ Environmental Cancer Initiative, in
partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and
the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry.
According to Dr. Harbut, asbestos and cigarette exposures
individually confer a five- to 10-fold increased risk of lung
cancer, but exposure to both increases that number to a
54- to 90-fold increased risk.
“Michigan has a higher rate of lung cancer than other
states, and recent data suggests that more than 30 percent
of lung cancers are caused by environmental agents after
controlling for smoking,” Dr. Harbut says.
8 | HOPE

COMPASSIONATE CARE
“The three major environmental
agents that
contribute to this are
asbestos in products like
insulation, arsenic in
drinking water and radon
gas that can seep through
basement walls. We want
to elevate the standard
of care pertaining to the
diagnosis and treatment
of patients with exposure
to these toxins.”
The Environmental Cancer
Initiative consists of four,
hour-long online courses
that give physicians the
diagnostic tools to identify
patients at risk before
symptoms become apparent.
There is no
charge to enroll and
Blue Cross compensates
physicians for their
time with an incentive
payment upon completion
of the course. The program
is the first of its kind in
the country.
“Environmental cancers can
be very aggressive,” Dr. Harbut says. “That’s why early
detection is imperative. Patients should not dismiss
unexplained symptoms that may be associated with certain
environmental cancer-causing agents. When in doubt,
check it out.”
Van Haren concurs with Dr. Harbut’s advice.
Barb Van Haren
“Don’t ignore symptoms like a persistent cough – get it
diagnosed early,” she says. “I’m very fortunate to be in the
care of Karmanos doctors,” she says. “Not only are they
among the best in the country, they take the time to listen
to me and provide top-notch care.”
For more information on the Environmental Cancer
Initiative, visit www.karmanos.org and click on the
“Education” tab.
HOPE | 9

COMPASSIONATE CARE
Driving
FORCE
Cancer Survivor
Supports Research
for Early Pancreatic
Cancer Test
According to the National Cancer
Institute, more than 42,000 people will
be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this
year and more than 35,000 patients will die
from the disease. Pancreatic cancer and its
mortality rates have changed little in the
past three decades – the five-year survival
rate is just five percent.
This cancer is particularly deadly because
its symptoms are initially subtle and often
attributed to other ailments. Because the
pancreas is located in the center of the
abdomen deep inside the body, it’s often
difficult to identify the disease at an early
stage. In many cases, by the time the disease
is correctly diagnosed, the cancer has spread
to the patient’s lymph nodes, liver or lungs,
significantly reducing the chance for a cure.
As with all cancers, getting an early diagnosis
is critical. And researchers at the Karmanos
Cancer Institute, the Wayne State University
School of Medicine and Henry Ford Health
System are working together to develop
a new blood test that will help detect
pancreatic cancer at an early stage.
Sheila sky kasselman
Sheila Sky Kasselman, a tenacious
pancreatic cancer survivor from West
Bloomfield, is a driving force behind the
research. As she recovered from cancer
surgery in 2008, she began raising the
funds necessary to launch the project.
10 | HOPE

COMPASSIONATE CARE
Steve Dudas, Ph.D.
Photo by Brad Kasselman
True to Her Promise
Kasselman had dealt with various ailments for about
a year before doctors determined their true cause.
Fortunately, her disease was diagnosed at Stage 1 –
early enough for successful treatment.
“I had lost 12 pounds in a month, and I normally
weigh about 110,” says Kasselman, 69, a retired financial
planner. “Then I developed diabetes and became
jaundiced. A CT scan in October 2007 revealed a
tumor at the head of my pancreas.”
Kasselman underwent simultaneous chemotherapy
and radiation therapy for six weeks to shrink the tumor.
In January 2008, surgeons removed the tumor in a
10-hour procedure that impacted her pancreas, small
intestine, bile duct and stomach.
“I was told that it was a very involved, high-risk surgery,”
Kasselman says. “But I remained mentally strong. In my
diary I wrote, ‘I’m not going to die. I have way too much to
accomplish.’ I made a promise to myself and my family that
I would do everything I could to challenge this disease.”
Kasselman has remained true to her promise. While
recovering from surgery, she formed the Sky Foundation
to help increase awareness of pancreatic cancer and raise
funds to help researchers find better ways of diagnosing
the disease. Through her Henry Ford Hospital gastroenterologist,
Ann Silverman, M.D., Kasselman learned
about the research underway at Karmanos.
Early Stage Biomarkers
Michael Tainsky, Ph.D., leader of Karmanos’ Molecular
Biology and Genetics Program and professor in
the Department of Pathology at the Wayne State
University School of Medicine, had spent seven years
researching diagnostic biomarkers for ovarian cancer.
Inspired by Kasselman’s enthusiasm and drive to help
pancreatic cancer patients, Dr. Tainsky and his team
began working with Dr. Silverman on developing an
early detection blood test.
“We’re using the same approach we applied when
researching ovarian cancer biomarkers,” says Research
Associate Steve Dudas, Ph.D., a member of Dr. Tainsky’s
research team. “We’re collecting serum samples from a
number of bio-repositories and through the National
Cancer Institute’s Early Detection Research Network.
We basically look for profiles of cancer-associated
auto-antibodies in the blood that would be indicative
of a malignancy in the pancreas. Identifying these
auto-antibodies as cancer biomarkers will help us
develop an advanced screening blood test.”
Dr. Dudas says the Sky Foundation was instrumental
in launching the project.
“We’ve worked with the foundation almost since its
inception to raise the funds needed to begin the discovery
phase of our research,” he says. “It takes time and money
to launch a study of this magnitude. We’re optimistic
that we’ll carry our work forward to the point where
we can apply for additional funding from the National
Institutes of Health.”
Thus far, the Sky Foundation has raised about $165,000
and continues to advance toward its initial $500,000
fundraising goal. The foundation has become a labor
of love for Kasselman.
“I’m very fortunate to be one of the few people who
survive the disease,” she says. The foundation is my way
of giving back – we want to supply hope for patients, as
well as solid scientific data. We have tremendous faith
in the research team and their collaborative efforts to
develop a diagnostic tool that will save lives.”
To get involved or to make a contribution, call the
Sky Foundation at 248-978-9845 or the Karmanos
Cancer Institute at 313-576-8119. You can also visit
skyfoundationinc.org. For more information about cancer
services, call 1-800-KARMANOS or visit Karmanos.org.
HOPE | 11

AT KARMANOS
A Party
in Pink
Woodward Avenue in Midtown Detroit is never
more beautiful than the day it’s decked out for the Susan
G. Komen Detroit Race for the Cure®. About 30,000
people descend upon Comerica Park each year to increase
breast cancer awareness, celebrate survivorship and raise
much-needed funds to support local breast cancer
education, screening programs and cancer research.
This year’s race, scheduled for Saturday, May 22, will be
the 19th annual event.
“The Komen Detroit Race for the Cure is a big
Detroit party for the entire family,” says Maureen
Keenan Meldrum, race chair and director of Breast
Cancer Special Programs at the Karmanos Cancer
Institute. “Our job is to keep it fresh and wonderful.
We promise the same mix of traditions that people
have come to love about our race, as well as some cool
new surprises.”
Despite the tough economy, last year’s event raised
just over $2 million. Each year, 75 percent of the proceeds
remain within the local community for breast cancer
screening and treatment programs for medically
underserved populations. The remaining funds support
breast cancer research grants for projects across the globe,
including work underway at Karmanos.
The theme of the 2010 race is “The Power of 10.”
Organizers are encouraging race participants to increase
their involvement with actions like asking 10 more people
to make a donation or telling 10 more women about the
importance of mammograms.
Karmanos Cancer Center Mammography Screening Guidelines
Last November, the United States Preventative
Services Task Force issued new breast cancer
screening guidelines that were met with some
controversy. Karmanos Cancer Center breast
cancer specialists are not adopting these new
guidelines. Karmanos recommends that:
1. Beginning at age 40, women should speak
to their doctors about mammography to
understand the potential benefits and risks,
and determine what is best for them.
Though mammography is not perfect, it
remains the best tool for physicians to detect a tumor
that is too small to be felt.
2. Continue with self-breast exams. Women need to be
familiar with their bodies and immediately contact their
physician if they detect a lump or other abnormality.
3. Discussions about the new guidelines do not apply
to women who are considered to be of high risk for
breast cancer. This includes, but is not limited to:
• Anyone with a strong family history of breast cancer.
• Women with a history of breast cancer.
• Women who detect a lump in their breast.
12 | HOPE

AT KARMANOS
May 22 Marks the 19th Annual Komen Detroit Race for the Cure ®
“At first, I went to the
event to support my mom.
But I also found that
going helps build you
up – and you need a lot
of support when you
face cancer.
— Sherry Thrower
HOPE | 13

AT KARMANOS
“Everyone knows someone who has been
touched by breast cancer,” Meldrum says. “As
a breast cancer survivor myself, I know how
comforting it is to become involved with the race.
The biggest thing participants take away from
the event is tremendous optimism from seeing so
many pink shirts and happy cancer survivors.”
One of those survivors is Sherry Thrower of Detroit.
Doctors diagnosed her with breast cancer in 2007 after
a routine mammogram.
“My mother is a three-time cancer survivor, so I
understand the importance of regular mammograms,”
says Thrower, 43. “She was treated at Karmanos, so I was
very comfortable seeing them for a second opinion. They
concurred with the first diagnosis, and I had chemotherapy,
a mastectomy and radiation therapy in 2008. Now, I’m
cancer-free. I had an awesome team of doctors and
they were always positive. I’d recommend them for their
expertise and attitude.”
Thrower has attended the last three Komen Detroit
Race for the Cure events with her mother.
“At first, I went to the event to support my mom. But I
also found that going helps build you up – and you need
a lot of support when you face cancer. I heard many
wonderful stories about survivorship at the race. It’s a
very uplifting, positive event.”
For Early Detection,
Get a Mammogram
As with all cancers, early detection is the key. And one of the most valuable tools
for an early breast cancer diagnosis is a mammogram.
“Early diagnosis not only results in a lower death rate, but also more treatment options,”
says Sharon Helmer, M.D., clinical service chief of the Karmanos Cancer Center Imaging
Department and medical director of Breast Imaging. “It opens up the possibility of
conservative therapy for breast conservation. It also gives patients more treatment
options in terms of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.”
Dr. Helmer emphasizes that mammograms aren’t perfect and can sometimes show a
false positive or miss cancers that are present, but it’s still the best method available
for detecting the disease. “It is very important for women to have annual mammograms
beginning at age 40,” she says.
“Until the early 1990s, little progress had been made in decreasing breast cancer
mortality,” Dr. Helmer adds. “But since the development of mammography, the breast
cancer death rate has declined by 30 percent. It’s been extremely successful.”
For further information about mammography screenings, visit karmanos.org
or call 1-800-KARMANOS.
014 | | HOPE

AT KARMANOS
Race Info
WHAT:
The 19th Annual
Susan G. Komen Detroit
Race for the Cure ®
5K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Walk
locally presented by the
Karmanos Cancer Institute.
WHEN:
Saturday, May 22,
7-11:30 a.m.
Street closures will begin at 7 a.m.
Opening Ceremony 8 a.m.
Race and walk 9 a.m.
Closing Ceremony 10:30 a.m.
WHERE:
Comerica Park, Detroit.
WHY:
To help save lives and end breast
cancer forever.
FOR MORE
INFORMATION:
karmanos.org/detroitraceforthecure
HOPE | | 15 0

AT KARMANOS
Up Close:
Connie Claybaker, B.A., MBA
Throughout her career spanning 30+ years, Connie
Claybaker has worn a lot of hats. From catalog distribution
center accountant to restaurant owner to her current
role as vice president of Research Administration at the
Karmanos Cancer Institute, she’s put many different skills
to work. But through all her career moves, the common
thread is strong leadership.
“I love developing business processes, handling complex
projects and leading people,” says Claybaker, who joined
Karmanos in 2003 and assumed her current position last
June. “I’m a people-oriented person who thrives in environments
that support independent thinking and collaboration.”
Claybaker’s department helps Karmanos obtain federal,
state, and corporate funding for its research activities, including
clinical trials. The department manages hundreds of
grant proposals and contracts at any one time and provides
administrative support services for the competitive Cancer
Center Support Grant. This grant is key to Karmanos’ designation
as a comprehensive cancer center by the National
Cancer Institute. Karmanos is one of just 40 such centers in
the United States.
“Of those 40 comprehensive cancer centers, only a dozen
or so are stand alone, independent hospitals,” Claybaker
says. “Karmanos is one of those and we only treat cancer.
That’s an important distinction, because Karmanos patients
know that no matter who they encounter here, that person
gives their undivided attention to curing cancer. Embedded
within that is my job – taking the administrative burden off
our cancer researchers so they can do what they do best.”
Claybaker launched her career in the mid-1970s as a staff
accountant at the J.C. Penney Distribution Center in Columbus,
Ohio. From there, she held accounting and management
positions at various companies before opening a health food
restaurant, the Hip Pocket Deli, in Columbus.
Connie Claybaker (center) with staff members Valerie Wade
and Evano Piasentin in the Leonard N. Simons Cancer Research
Library located in Karmanos’ Prentis Cancer Research Center.
Photo by Gregg W. Hettel
“Running a restaurant was very physical work,” Claybaker
says. “Things like tofu and pickles came in these enormous
tubs that you had to carry. It was physically exhausting work.”
After about two years in the restaurant business, Claybaker
joined Riverside Methodist Hospitals in Columbus to
manage its accounts payable and payroll department.
After advancing to director of Medical Staff Administration,
she knew that working in health care was her true
calling. She moved to Michigan in 1999 and joined
Karmanos after managing financial and grant activities at
other health care organizations.
“When you enter health care, it becomes a passion,”
Claybaker says. “I’ve never touched a patient or
administered a drug, but I don’t feel as though I haven’t
made a contribution. Research is much more than just a
mission statement at Karmanos. Everyone here is very
passionate about what they do and many people wear
it on their sleeves. That’s infectious. I’m proud of this
organization because it clearly gives itself to patients
for unselfish reasons. It’s clear to me that our work will
one day help someone’s parent or grandparent or loved
one beat this disease.”
[BIO]
Connie Claybaker, B.A., MBA
TITLE: Vice President of
Research Administration
BIRTHPLACE: Coshocton, Ohio
EDUCATION: B.A., Accounting and
Management (Cum Laude); MBA, Capital
University, Columbus, Ohio.
HOME: West Bloomfield
HOBBIES: Golf, reading, going to the movies and
playing with her dog, Buster. “I just began reading
Barbara Kingsolver’s new novel, ‘The Lacuna.’ A
perfect weekend for me is sleeping in, watching a
movie and having dinner with friends.”

We All Start
Somewhere
Karmanos Medical Staff Share Stories about Their First Jobs
Sharon Helmer, M.D.
Clinical Service Chief, Imaging Department, Medical Director of Karmanos Breast Imaging
“I got my first job at age 16 as a waitress at the Deer Run Golf Club in Horton,
Michigan. Not only did I take the golfers’ orders in the clubhouse, I also prepared the
food in the kitchen and then had to serve and clear the table. I could make incredible
fried onion rings…a skill I often regretted. That job was my first taste of dealing with the
public. I learned a lot that summer about working with people from different backgrounds
and with different expectations. I’ve carried many of those lessons with me – particularly
about treating everyone equally and with respect no matter how they treat you.”
Ho-Sheng Lin, M.D., FACS
Leader, Head & Neck Oncology Multidisciplinary Team
“When I was 16, I worked as a technician in a microbiology laboratory in Ocala,
Florida. This was my dream job because I got to work in a medically related field
and the job sounded cooler than working in a supermarket or fast food restaurant.
However, the job wasn’t very glamorous. Most of the time, I was washing test tubes
and bottles filled with germs. I don’t think they had very good OSHA (Occupational
Safety and Health Administration) regulations back then. However, I did learn some
microbiological techniques and some cool bug names, such as ‘streptococcus.’”
Michael Simon, M.D., MPH
Medical Oncologist
“In the summer after my senior year of high school, I worked evenings and some weekends at a
Baskin-Robbins ice cream store in the Chicago neighborhood where I grew up. During the day,
I was a day camp counselor at the Henry Hart Jewish Community Center. I loved being outside
and working with kindergarten-age children. We often took them to a large park on Chicago’s
north side for various activities. I enjoyed the ice cream shop because friends and family came
regularly for ice cream. Making the various sodas was fun – eventually I learned how to make
some of the more complicated orders.”
Lisa Zajac, MSN, APRN-BC, OCN
Informatics Nursing Specialist
“I got my first job at the Dearborn Toys “ ” Us when I was 17. I started as a “Geoffrey’s
Helper” (helping shoppers on the sales floor), but also worked as a cashier and stocking
shelves. I loved helping a grandparent find a gift for their grandchild during the holiday
season. I also enjoyed working until 2 a.m. straightening the shelves for the next day.
One night we had to re-shelve 140 carts of merchandise that customers left in the
wrong spot. This job really prepared me to be a nurse. I not only learned about providing
excellent customer service, but, at times, I worked days, afternoons and midnights, just
as I’ve done at Karmanos through the years.”
HOPE | 17
Photo by Gregg W. Hettel

At karmanos
Advancing
Cancer Science
Partners Vigorously Supports Karmanos Researchers
Every day, Karmanos Cancer Institute scientists
and clinicians break new ground in their search for
better cancer detection and treatment methods. Because
there’s a tremendous cost in terms of equipment and staffing,
funding from sources outside Karmanos is essential for
launching and maintaining these exciting research initiatives.
And that’s where fundraising groups like Partners come in.
Partners is a dynamic group of volunteers, ages 25 to 50, who
are dedicated to making an impact in the fight against cancer.
Philanthropists Anna and Harry Korman created Partners
in 1994 in honor of their late daughter, Suzanne, who died
of cancer at age 36. They established a research fund with
the hope of finding better treatments and earlier detection
methods for cancer patients. Since the group’s formation,
it has raised more than $5.6 million for Karmanos through
fundraising events and individual donations.
One initiative Partners has supported with $750,000 in
donations over the past five years is Karmanos’ National
Oncogenomics and Molecular Imaging Center (NOMIC).
Directed by Principal Investigator Stephen Ethier, Ph.D.,
NOMIC is engaged in developing technology that will
help physicians better diagnose cancer by defining gene
mutations that characterize cancers in individual patients.
This research will one day allow physicians to create highly
customized treatment therapies based on the specific gene
mutations identified in a patient.
“In order to secure federal funding for research, you have
to prove that your project will generate results,” Dr. Ethier
says. “We don’t just spend funds from groups like Partners,
we try to leverage it to obtain more funding. Having the
lab up and running allowed us to obtain federal grants.
“The bottom line is, financial assistance from Partners
doesn’t just support cool science – it helps us take care of
patients in ways never before possible. Our goal is to make
sure we’re bringing the best technology to cancer patients.”
Beyond NOMIC, according to Dr. Ethier, Partners funds
have purchased vital research equipment that ensures
cutting-edge research continues in the research labs, and
ensures that Karmanos’ shared resource laboratories always
have state-of-the-art equipment, which is essential to a
strong cancer center. This ultimately benefits the nearly
6,000 new patients who come to Karmanos annually for
“We knew we’d have to make a significant investment in
NOMIC in order to meet our research goals,” Dr. Ethier
says. “Partners has been instrumental in helping us launch
the program. Through their generous donations, we’ve been
able to purchase state-of-the-art equipment and attract
cutting-edge researchers. NOMIC simply wouldn’t exist
without their support.”
Partners funding has also helped NOMIC secure more
than $14 million in grants from the U.S. Army Medical
Research and Materiel Command.
18 | HOPE
From left: Ramsi Haddad, Ph.D., director, Laboratory of
Translational Oncogenomics; Raj Atikukke, post-doctoral
fellow, and Irene Broner, lab manager. Photo by Gregg W. Hettel

At karmanos
Photo by Gregg W. Hettel
treatment. As it looks to the future, Partners plans to raise
funds for a laboratory to investigate lung cancer.
“I find it personally rewarding to be part of a group of
young, enthusiastic people dedicated to raising money for
cancer research,” says Dan Cornwell, executive co-chair of
Partners and financial planning consultant. “It’s worthwhile
for me to be part of this group considering cancer has
impacted my family and many of my clients.
“The staff at the Karmanos Cancer Institute has always
been generous with time and resources. Partners members
are gratified to know that our efforts make a real difference
to those on the front lines of cancer research. Supporting
Karmanos scientists aligns with our group’s goal of one day
bringing cancer under complete control.”
J.J. Modell, who shares the executive co-chair position with
Cornwell, has been a member of the organization for about
10 years and has seen the change that comes about from
the Partners’ efforts.
“During my time with the Partners organization, I have
seen firsthand the wonderful and tremendous progress that
has been made in the fight against cancer,” Modell said.
“Partners members are pleased to know they are helping
bring hope to Karmanos’ patients.”
To learn how to become a member of Partners, call
(313) 576-8107 or e-mail partners@karmanos.org.
Upcoming Partners Events
PARTNERS GOLF OUTING
Monday, August 30
Franklin Hills Country Club
Nearly 200 golfers participate in a competitive scramble.
For their generous contributions, guests enjoy a great
day of golf, food, drink and prizes.
PARTNERS NIGHT
Saturday, September 11
Detroit Institute of Arts
Partners Night is the group’s signature event. It includes
an incredible silent auction, a raffle, fine strolling savory
fare, and live entertainment and dancing.
For more information on these events, contact the Partners at (313) 576-8107 or partners@karmanos.org.
HOPE | 19

AROUND
town
FUND-RAISING EVENTS
MAY
Horsemen’s Paradise Trail Ride
Saturday, May 15
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Belle Isle
North Brothers Ford &
the City of Westland 12th Annual
5K Fun Run/Walk
Saturday, May 15
8 – 11 a.m.
Bailey Recreation Center
36651 Ford Rd, Westland
The $500,000 Odyssey 2-Ball
Putt Challenge presented
by Carl’s Golfland
Saturday, May 15
10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Carl’s Golfland
1976 S. Telegraph Rd., Bloomfield Hills
2nd Annual Ken Wood
Memorial Golf Outing
Saturday, May 15
Noon – 5 p.m.
Pheasant Run Golf Course
1150 S. Canton Center Road, Canton
Artunes on the Mountain
Saturday, May 22
11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Bald Mountain State Recreation Area
1330 East Greenshield Road, Lake Orion
JUNE
Noodles & Company Benefit Night
Thursday, June 3
4 – 9 p.m.
Noodles & Company #8007
470 S. Main Street, Royal Oak
Hank Greenberg Memorial
Golf Invitational
Monday, June 21
Oakland Hills Country Club
3951 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills
2010 Solstice Run
Saturday, June 26
7 a.m. – Noon
Downtown Northville
JULY
International Dragon
Boats Festival
Friday, July 9 – Sunday, July 11
Windsor, ON
SKIN III
Saturday, July 24
Location to be determined
Three Shots Against Cancer
Saturday, July 24
8 a.m.
Wyandotte Shores Golf Course
3625 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte
Ryan O’Donnell Golf Outing
Saturday, July 24
Sycamore Hills Golf Club
48787 North Avenue, Macomb
Torch Lakes Classics Rendezvous
Saturday, July 24
Torch Lake in Bellaire
AUGUST
6th Annual Tammy Z Golf outing
Saturday, August 7
Mystic Creek,
One Champions Circle, Milford
Pummill Cancer Golf Classic
Saturday, August 14
The Links at Whitmore Lake
1111 6 Mile Rd, Whitmore Lake
BAPS Charities Annual Walkathon
August 21
8 a.m.
1150 Canton Center Road South, Canton
10th Annual Kenneth J. Scott
Memorial Golf Outing
Sunday, August 22
Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center
8768 North Territorial Road, Plymouth
Hero Foundation Golf Outing
Saturday, August 28
11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Twin Lakes Golf & Swim Club in Oakland Township
455 Twin Lakes Drive, Oakland Township
Partners Golf
Monday, August 30
Franklin Hills Country Club
31675 Inkster Road, Franklin
20 | HOPE

Kroger’s
Acts of Kindness
Ongoing Donations Fund Cancer Research at Karmanos
As a community partner, the Kroger Company
is a tremendous force in the fight against cancer.
Over the past four years, Kroger’s Michigan Division
has made a strong commitment to supporting cancer
research and patients at the Karmanos Cancer Institute
and American Cancer Society. Each year, Kroger’s
combined in-store promotions raise about $150,000
for Karmanos. The funds primarily support ovarian
and breast cancer research.
“Kroger’s primary customers are women between the
ages of 25 and 54, and cancer is one of their biggest health
concerns,” says Dale Hollandsworth of Kroger Consumer
Communications. “We have an obligation to support
initiatives that address those concerns. We welcome the
opportunity to team with a world-class organization
like the Karmanos Cancer Institute to improve treatments
for breast and ovarian cancer and even find a cure for
these life-threatening diseases.”
evaluate new cancer-fighting drugs. Kroger plans to
continue providing treats for Phase I patients in the
coming months.
“We are grateful for the extraordinary support of
Kroger and its customers,” says Nick Karmanos, vice
president of Development for Karmanos. “Kroger’s
continued generosity to provide resources for cancer research
and education is an exceptional example of corporate
partnership and their commitment to this community.”
One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
A woman’s risk of getting ovarian cancer in her lifetime
is about one in 67. Early detection is critical to saving
lives and research is a vital component in finding better
ways to diagnose and treat the disease.
If your organization is interested in partnering with
the Karmanos Cancer Institute, call 313-576-8111.
In 2006, Kroger launched its Teal Ribbon campaign at
its stores to support the Gail Purtan Ovarian Cancer
Research Fund at Karmanos. Three years ago, Kroger
began raising funds for breast cancer research through
coin box donations at checkout lines, the sale of special
“Recipes for Hope” cookbooks and other promotions.
“Kroger is committed to funding research to help find a
cure for cancer and the Karmanos Cancer Institute and
the American Cancer Society are uniquely suited to lead
this effort,” says Rick Going, president of Kroger’s
Michigan Division. “We’re thrilled to partner with the
Karmanos Cancer Institute and the American Cancer
Society and hope our donations, through the generous
support from our partners, customers and associates, will
have even more impact on cancer research initiatives.”
Kroger associates also showed their appreciation for
Karmanos patients last August when they sent a basket
of Kroger bakery cookies to the Phase I clinical trial unit.
Patients in this unit are enrolled in research studies that

Email: hope@karmanos.org
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Mary ANn SHort
Vice President,
Marketing and Communications
Linda H. Remington
Editor
Director,
Marketing and Communications
Karmanos.org
1-800-KARMANOS
Mail Code: NCO6MC
4100 JOHN R
DETROIT, MI 48201
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Associate Editors:
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Photos by Stephen Lengnick, Plum Street Studio
Copyright 2010 Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
Grand Opening
The Karmanos-Crittenton Cancer Center
The Karmanos-Crittenton Cancer Center recently
celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting
ceremony. The new 30,000-square-foot facility brings
state-of-the-art cancer care to patients in Rochester Hills
and the surrounding communities. Photos by David Dalton
“Ford Corporate Flowers” by Chris McCauley - A guest
admires artwork at the cancer center provided by local
artists from Oakland University and Paint Creek Center
for the Arts.
Interior photo of bldg: Photography by Beth Singer Photographer, Inc.
Steve Stolaruk, who donated the land
for this facility, Gerold Bepler, M.D.,
Ph.D., president & CEO, Karmanos
Cancer Institute; and Lynn Orfgen,
president & CEO, Crittenton Hospital
Medical Center, cut the ribbon.