Cambridge Health Alliance

Shamsher Bam, Cambridge Health Alliance Shamsher Bam, born and raised in Nepal, graduated from UMass Boston and has been a registered nurse since 2009. He has been a compassionate nurse and has taught me what it means to be a nurse colleague. He takes care of patients at the TB clinic and sees public health cases in Cambridge. He gets to know the patients on a deeper level, asking about their culture, learning their language and how it is living their life daily. I can share anything with Shamsher and he will help me when I am dealing with a difficult situation without having to compromise my trust. He advocates for patients with his patience and knowledge. We tried to draw blood on a 6-year-old patient when I thought we can just go in without negotiating or give up when I saw no blood return. Shamsher kept trying with his patience and his kindness to put the patient at ease, and finally we got the blood and the patient did not feel anything. He will always ask if someone looks lost, he would always smile and make a joke every day. He precepts me about TB disease as I am new to this job in public health. I really appreciate his work and can see what he does for patients. Nominated by Karen Chui

Cambridge Health Alliance/Elder Service Plan PACE Program

Balaram Shrestha, Cambridge Health Alliance Balaram Shrestha demonstrates professionalism with a calm, welcoming demeanor. A native of Nepal, Balaram carries himself with a constant smile on his face. He is willing to help when a nurse is out sick, when a patient requires more attention, when he is called on the weekend by fellow nurses asking for assistance. Once he walked in a snow storm to visit his patients so they would not have to go to the Emergency Department for their care. Nominated by Tara Sherman

The Cambridge Hospital

Marya Peterson, Cambridge Hospital Marya Peterson is an ever-present breath of fresh air on our unit. She happily gives 150 percent of herself to her patients and colleagues. We are blessed to work in an environment that provides opportunity to see new lives born every day. As wonderful as this is, it can also be very busy and sometimes sad. Marya never needs to be asked to help; you turn around and she is there (with a smile). She cares for patients, their families, and visitors with an unparalleled loving kindness. New families require a great deal of attention and education, both of which Marya thoroughly and happily provides. Marya possesses clinical expertise in both labor and delivery and mother-baby care, despite having been a nurse for a short time. She eagerly accepts challenges with grace and is not afraid to seek guidance when needed. About a year ago a plan was made for our nursing staff to designate an area of nursing focus with the choices given: Nursery, Labor and Delivery, and Mother-Baby. Marya was one of few who asked to remain cross-trained. Marya knew her passion for the care of women, newborns, and their families could not be contained to one area. One of the most impressive reasons she chose this appears to be that she genuinely likes to help her colleagues. When I walk on the unit and realize Marya is working, I smile. I know that anyone who comes in contact with her will be smiling too. In a time when we all could use more smiles, I wish the world had more nurses like Marya. Nominated by Melissa Abell-Bardsley

Campion Health Center

Sam Katende, Campion Health Center Growing old is no fun. Everybody knows that, or will, sooner or later. Body parts weaken, sometimes falter. What once was easy is now a real challenge. People dont always appreciate what elderly folk have to endure. Life in a nursing home can be quite dull. The bright edges of ones social life inevitably become dimmed. But then along comes a Sam Katende. Sam is a nurse with a winning smile. When Sam enters a room, the whole atmosphere brightens up. Sure, Sam is trained, competent, caring, cooperative . . . a real professional. But Sams smile is something else. Its brilliance alone is therapeutic. Its tough to be a medical student, to be forced to live very frugally, to corral resources for survival, to pay off student loans, to maintain equilibrium in chaos, and to nurture our failing health. But Sam continues to do it all and smiles in open joy to be of help. Somehow, he will fulfill his dream: He will one day be a doctor. Meantime, Sam brightens our lives. Bless him. Nominated by Simon Smith

Cape Cod Hospital

Diane Robertson, Cape Cod Hospital Diane Robertson was such a blessing in my journey as a new mom. She is a lactation consultant at the hospital, and she is passionate about the women who attend her classes. Dianes warm disposition and compassion made us feel comfortable as new parents, and her continued support postpartum was unmatched. When we found out we were expecting our second child, I was excited to know she would be there for the birth. She has inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. Nominated by Melanie Mimmo

Care Dimensions

Sherry MacKenzie, Care Dimensions Sherry MacKenzie is a compassionate hospice nurse who consistently gives excellent care to all those fortunate enough to be her patients. She works closely with her patients and their families to determine the best course of action for each person, ensuring optimal patient-centered outcomes. She is very articulate in explaining complex treatment plans to those with serious illnesses, and she makes sure families understand and agree. This is no small feat. Sherry has great skill in navigating the often difficult emotional journeys that the terminally ill and their loved ones are on. As a colleague, she is congenial and a pleasure to work withalways professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. She is an effective team leader, coordinating the various disciplines so people at the end of life can be supported physically, emotionally, and spiritually. When I am nearing the end of my days on this earth, Sherry is the person I would want as my caregiver and advocate. Nominated by Marcia Feldman

CareGroup Home Care

Helen Tieger, CareGroup Home Care Helen Tieger has been my mothers nurse for years, off and on, as her condition requires it. Helens most recent time with my mom was this fall. My mothers doctor wanted to have a nurse back in to monitor her condition. My moms response was, Only if its my Helen. That shows the connection between the two of them. In the beginning, we thought Helen was coming into our lives to do her job. A job that she does very conscientiously. I always felt that my mom was in good hands. Helen was friendly and thorough. She opened a good line of communication between the two of us and the doctors. When my mom had to be hospitalized, Helen would call me at night and on weekends to check in on her. She wanted her to know that she would be there for her, when she got back home. It was obvious that this was more than Helens job. She genuinely cares for my mom. Helen quickly learned my moms likes (watching baseball, classic movies, and feeding those who enter her home). Helen would take the time to chat with Mom about her favorite home teams games and ask questions about the classic movies playing in the background. She also learned her dislikes (having blood work and blood pressure taken). But, Helen found ways to make it as painless as possible. We all bonded over our common loves of family and food. Helen became part of Moms medical team and our family. Hopefully, all the good Helen does finds its way back to her. Nominated by Diane Arciero

CareGroup VNA

Rosemary Mangan, Caregroup VNA Rosemary Mangan cared for my elderly uncle who was home-bound for many years. She cared for his wounds and for his heart and spirit. Her dedication was unsurpassed. She was an invaluable support to our family on countless occasions. And she was there for him and for us in the end when he passed. She is the model of what it means to be a nurse. We are very grateful to her for all she did for my uncle and for his family. Nominated by Ellen Rothstein

CHA Somerville

Lynne Crawford, CHA Somerville Lynne Crawford is the sweetest soul I ever met. She has a true interest in my well-being, and no matter how simple or big my issue is, she always puts me at ease. Lynne Crawford is my hero. Nominated by Helida Anderson

Chelsea Public Schools

School Nurse Team, Chelsea Public Schools The Chelsea Public School nurse team consists of 11 nurses who care for more than 6,000 students in a very busy urban school setting. They are dedicated, professional nurses who choose to work in a community environment to better the lives of the children they serve on a daily basis. Each nurse works collaboratively within each school setting to triage, assess, treat, and plan according to the needs presented to them. They care for illness and injuries, meet with parents around specific medical plans of care needed during school, and maintain records and immunizations. Historically, school nursing started in 1902 in New York City to support educational achievement by promoting attendance. We, as school nurses, have not strayed from this role and have expanded it to include chronic disease management, behavioral health assessments, case management, as well as illness and injury care. The nursing team in Chelsea continues to strengthen their individual practices, share in the districts goals for educational achievement, and mirror the philosophy of the Whole School, Whole Community, and Whole Child model. This team deserves to be recognized for their dedication to the students in the Chelsea Public Schools. Nominated by Marie Washington

Comfort Home Care

Margarita Fajardo, Comfort Home Care Margarita Fajardo is a godsend. She cares for our mom as though she were her own. She is loving, funny, gentle, and kind. Margarita goes to great lengths for our mom, and Mama loves her so much. My 87-year-old mama would probably not be here today if not for the amazing care Margarita provides. Margarita is part of our family, and wed be lost without her. Thank you for all you do, Margarita Fajardo. Comfort Home Care is very lucky to have her on staff. Nominated by Norma Huard

Countryside Healthcare, Milford

Kerry Kiley, Countryside Healthcare, Milford Kerry Kiley is a nurse practitioner. I had the opportunity to observe her skills and interact with her over the past several years as she provided care for my mother. She possesses an exceedingly positive and cheerful personality and helped my mother and me through several difficult decisions and medical situations. Kerrys clinical competency is outstanding. When asked a question about a medication, she is able to immediately run through the interactions with other existing medications. She is able to quickly sort through various symptoms and arrive at a diagnosis that leads to a treatment plan. She makes herself endlessly available to her patients and their family members. She is highly valued by the nursing staff she works with and interacted seamlessly with my mothers primary care physician. Kerrys presence at Countryside Healthcare significantly improves and extends their ability to provide high quality care. I am forever indebted to her. Nominated by Richard Morrison

CVS Minute Clinic

Jessica Osenton, CVS Minute Clinic I had never used a Minute Clinic and didnt expect to encounter a highly qualified nurse practitioner there. But then I met Jessica Osenton. The previous day I had experienced shortness of breath and extreme tiredness. Janet took my blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. She suspected I had the flu, and took a nasal swab. The reading came back Flu A. She then prescribed TamiFlu, Tylenol, nasal spray, and a cough medication, helping me find all the products. I left CVS and the Minute Clinic feeling I had met a wonderful medical professional who quickly diagnosed my problem, helped with the medications, and gave me a detailed medical plan for the next five-to-seven days. Jessica also made a follow-up call to check on my progress. She was everything I could have wanted in a caregiver. Nominated by Robert Shuba

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Shannon Byrne Antman, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute This nurse is taking wonderful care of a very good friend of mine. She is devoted to him. Nothing more to say. Nominated by Sue Auclair

Kerry Beliveau, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Hearing you have cancer has got to be the scariest words a doctor could possibly say. My nurse, Kerry Beliveau, was my saving grace. The first day I arrived to get my chemo treatment, she made me feel comfortable in the most uncomfortable of situations. She explained everything that was happening with an ease and grace that settled me down and made me feel at ease. From that day on I knew how lucky I was to have her as my nurse. Every time I arrived for treatment, there was Kerry waiting with the biggest smile and arms open wide to welcome me. Her funny stories and undivided attention actually made me look forward to going to chemo treatments. When she cared for me, she truly made me feel like I was her most important patient. I felt the love she had for me, my family, and her job. When I got a little nauseous, there was Kerry, ready to do anything to make me feel betterdifferent medications, a warm blanket, or a funny story about her family. The day I lost my eyebrows completely was a gut-wrenching realization about what I was going through. But there was Kerry, her high heels clacking to my room, ready to spend 40 minutes with me in order to show me how to use an eyebrow pencil to get the most perfect, natural brow. The stories of her selfless dedication to her patients and me are endless. No written testament could come close to the gratitude I feel towards this amazing nurse. She was much more than my chemo nurse, she was family. Nominated by Alexandra Durand

Kathy Bielagus, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Kathy Bielagus has been the oncology nurse following my friends treatment at Dana-Farber for almost 10 years. Kathy is one of the most caring, thoughtful, sensitive, compassionate, understanding people who treated my partner. Kathy treated her with dignity, was very concerned about her feelings, and made sure she was comfortable during her chemo treatments. She monitored her constantly and was in touch with her oncologist at all times. Kathy even found time in her extremely busy schedule to visit Sharon numerous times when Sharon was hospitalized on St. Elizabeths oncology floor. Kathy also offered to come to our home to administer Neupogen shots if we werent able to find a nurse through VNA to administer them. Kathy goes all out to make this happen for her patients. She is one in a million, a hero in our eyes. Nominated by Marie Fernandez

Cindy Cao, Dana-Farber Yawkey Center 10th Floor Infusion Cindy Cao has shown a truly dedicated compassion for my wifes care. She is highly professional, personable, and caring with patients going through what is a very trying time in life. She exhibits knowledge beyond her years as she interacts with patients and prepares and dispenses infusion (chemo) therapy. She always remembers our names and takes an interest in how we are all doing as patient supporters. Cindy makes sure patients understand what she is doing for them, and she provides explanations to the patient support team. She offers heated blankets, asks if she can get us snacks, water, etc. We are so fortunate to have her as our nurse. She makes us feel like family, and we feel the same about her. Cindy is proof of what makes Dana-Farber such a special, wonderful institution. She is an asset to her profession and to any group lucky enough to have her on their team. Nominated by Blair Mehan

Krista Cardini, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute As a nurse myself, I hold pretty high expectations, especially when it comes to the care of my son, but I can say with absolute certainty that all the nurses I have come in contact with at the Jimmy Fund Clinic are a certain kind of amazing that I have not found elsewhere. Krista Cardini was assigned as my sons primary infusion nurse shortly after he was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer at 3 months old. For such a scary, uncertain time, we were able to laugh and smile when I never thought it would be possible. We went in at least once a week for weekly infusions for 60 weeks and looked forward to seeing Kristas smiling face. She truly cared for our son and was always willing to teach and explain any bumps in the road. She was a shoulder to cry on during the really hard days, and she always has a sweet, kind, and quiet disposition even when our son was not in the best of moods. Clinically, she was not afraid to speak up and seek out answers when he had a reaction or labs werent looking great or if he just wasnt acting like himself. She is absolutely the epitome of a selfless, smart, and caring nurse; she is who you want taking care of you in your worst of times. For the horror that is pediatric cancer that these nurses witness day in and out, they always handle everything with such grace and never cease to amaze me. We cannot thank Krista and all the nurses at Jimmy Fund Clinic and 9 North at Childrens enough. Nominated by Amanda Schneider

Carla Chapman, Dana-Farber Susan F. Smith Breast Cancer Treatment Carla Chapman was my nurse at the start of my treatment for breast cancer, which began in April of 2016. She was a calming force when I had a reaction to a drug on my first visit. She has been with me for the past year as I have gone through chemotherapy and then another IV therapy that I have. Carla has been my constant companion and excellent caregiver throughout. She has been extremely knowledgeable about the side effects I was experiencing. She completes her job with confidence and skill and has advocated for me. Most importantly, she has been positive and compassionate, and always smiling. I know Carla has been a great nurse, because I am a nurse myself. I am extremely particular about my health care. Traveling to a hospital for treatment has consumed my life for the past year. Knowing that I had my top-notch nurse at my back to remember to ask about all my troubles, which I would rather forget, has made this process more than bearable. The last session I had with Carla, I told her that coming here for treatment no longer felt like treatment, but a social event where I saw old friends. In addition to the health care stuff, we talk about her family and my family. So, can a nurse make a difference is your life? Absolutely. Nominated by Jeanne Carey

Kimberly Coleman, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute There are so many great nurses and support staff that attended to my care coordination, discharge, and unparalleled cross-border communication. Kimberly Coleman stands out because of her daily, interactive, and almost immediate care since I was discharged from my stem cell transplant on Dec. 14. Kimberly shares her professional polish, deep care, intelligence and passion, fitness in character, and really nice balance as a parent and advisor. Kimberlys support, navigation of care, medical intelligence, and team building have enabled me to regain hope and the physical and mental strength to keep climbing back. Nominated by Kirk Roth

Heather Cushing, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Heather Cushing was my sisters infusion nurse at DFCI. My sister was a type 1 diabetic in a battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Her goal was to live to see her 18-year-old adopted daughter graduate from college and get married. An unrealized goal. Heather helped Lynn focus on this moment and each weekly treatment. Never discounting Lynns goals. Heather created positivity in her work with Lynn, (who was a counselor) and who was in denial about her own demise. Her empathetic ways served Lynn, her daughter, my younger sister, our 94- and 90-year-young parents in understanding what Lynns journey would entail. Heather was direct, honest, humorous, and well equipped to support us in life and in loss. Lynns daughter has been in denial as any teenager would be when losing their only parent. Heather supported her with love and caring ways. I cannot even put into words all the TLC Heather offered our family. She has always had a positive attitude and to this day we get together to celebrate life on a regular basis when I come to DFCI to donate platelets on a bi-weekly basis. Heather put medical terms into plain English and shared openly and honestly with Lynn and our entire family. Nominated by Don Greenstein

Kathie Flagg, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Kathie Flagg is my oncology nurse at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Katie was assigned to me on my first day of treatment, and we connected immediately. I was obviously very scared, given my recent pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Katie was very compassionate and took her time to get to know me and my family. She educated us on my chemotherapy infusion and the expected side effects. She always answers our questions and even researches the compatibility of certain drugs with my infusion drugs. She does this on her own time. During my second infusion, I began having an adverse muscle reaction to one of the drugs. Katie immediately paused the infusion and called our oncologist. She researched and advocated for a certain medication to relieve the side effect. The medication worked and is now part of my care plan. Through the months, my treatment has been delayed and weve missed our regularly scheduled appointments with Katie, but she will track me in the system and either try to be assigned to us or leave us messages. She welcomes e-mails from us in between treatments with any questions or concerns. Everything about Katie is positive and compassionate. She has cried with us during the bad days and rejoiced with us when weve received positive news. Chemo infusion is not easy due to the side effects but knowing Katie is my nurse provides me great comfort. Being a nurse is not just a job for Katie, its who she is. Nominated by Kevin Chouinard

Danielle Johnson, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Danielle Johnson has been drawing my blood and inserting the IV needed for my MRs every three months for over 20 years. He makes a very difficult and anxiety-producing procedure nearly effortless and almost painless with his gentleness and humor. Nominated by Ruth Brown

Elizabeth Lynch, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Elizabeth Lynch has been my primary nurse for almost three years. She is exceptional, always professional and makes sure all of my meds are right. I have chemo every two weeks and she is always a ray of sunshine. Even when I dont have her for Infusion, she will always take time to stop and check up on me. She always makes me feel secure. She is knowledgeable, passionate, and extremely caring. Always has a smile, and I look forward to seeing her every visit. Nominated by Greg Grass

Jennifer McKenna, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute I first met Jennifer McKenna, nurse practitioner extraordinaire, in July of 2009, just days after my stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis. She guided me through a very difficult year of surgery, chemo, and radiation. She was always very considerate and knowledgeable and made me laugh and smile during difficult treatments. On the fifth anniversary of my breast cancer diagnosis, Jen was compassionate when I found out that I now had stage 3 thyroid cancer. She offered expert advice and care and reassured me when I was afraid. Two years ago, when I had pain in my hip, Jen immediately followed up and ordered necessary exams, which eventually revealed metastatic breast cancer and, a few months later, metastatic thyroid cancer. She helped me understand the treatments and kept me hopeful about my prognosis. My monthly visits with Jen for my treatments are always a wonderful mix of clinical guidance, compassion, and positive conversation. As a patient thriving with 2 metastatic cancers, I understand the importance of having a strong team of caregivers as I am now in treatment for the rest of my life. Jen McKenna has encouraged me in all of my fund-raising and advocacy work, she has helped me stay positive in light of the two cancer diagnoses, and she has demonstrated expert clinical knowledge. She is there to remind me that I am living and thriving with cancers and that I should remain hopeful with new treatments that will help me live a longer, happier life. For all of these reasons, I am forever grateful to my nurse Jen McKenna. Nominated by Carol Chaoui

Karyn ORourke, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Karyn ORourke, whose nickname is Kay, takes care of me from the start of treatment until the end like a mother. She always knows what to say to put a smile on my face, always knows what I need to make me comfortable during my infusions. Overall, shes just an awesome person and the best nurse I ever had. I miss having her as my nurse every week. Nominated by Tiffany Fernandes

Sandra Ruland, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Sandra Ruland is warm and personable. She listens well and takes your condition to heart. She makes a little small talk to warm you up and build comfort. Shes a wonderful nurse. Nominated by Andrew Parthum

Elahe Salehi, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute In December 2015, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was 34 years old, and my son, Wes, was three months old. I have never been so scared. My husband and I immediately knew we would go to Dana-Farber. As soon as I met my oncology nurse, Elahe Salehi, I immediately felt connected to her. She took time to get to know me as a person, not just as a patient, and that was so important to me. I saw Elahe regularly during treatment and she assured me at each visit that the chemo was working. She understood how important those visits were to mementally and physicallyand she genuinely felt the happiness that I felt each time she gave me good news. After five months of chemotherapy, I was cancer-free. It was the best news we could have asked for, according to Elahe, and she was there to celebrate with me. Nominated by Katie Meinelt

Marnie Salkovitz, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute The last week of August, we took our 5- and 8-year-old daughters to their favorite beach in Rhode Island. Olivia, the 5-year-old, said this was going to be her perfect day. While my wife was putting suntan lotion on Olivia, she noticed a large, firm mass on the girls left flank. I felt it and a sinking feeling washed over me. At Bostons Childrens Hospital, an ultrasound confirmed a tumor the size of a cantaloupe coming from her left kidney. We left the emergency room that day knowing she would need an operation to remove the kidney and that her prognosis was dependent on the stage of the cancer (Wilms Tumor). After surgery, Olivia started chemotherapy. Marnie Salkovitz was her assigned clinic nurse and always greeted Olivia with a warm smile and comforting conversation. Olivia was petrified of the process and cried hysterically. But Marnie was experienced, comforting, and flexible. Marnie took the time to learn Olivias favorite activities and the importance of her stuffed kitten, Dirty Kitty. At the Jimmy Fund Christmas festival for pediatric patients, Marnie could be seen mingling with her patients, warmly and openly welcoming them to the party. Olivias face lit up when she saw her. Her chemo now finished, she misses those Tuesday opportunities to spend time with Marnie. Nominated by Robb Kociol

Rachel Shaw, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Rachel Shaw is an infusion nurse on Yawkey 8 and has been my husband Peters nurse for many years. Peter has battled lymphoma for the past 13 years and has had two stem cell transplants over the past two years, which required chemotherapy and many blood transfusions. Rachel has been a source of comfort and compassion for not only Peter but for me as well. I dont know how we would have handled things as well as we did without her. She has such a calming presence, and it is evident that she truly cares for Peter and wants the best outcome for him. She always takes the time to listen and offer her support and advice. Even when Peter doesnt have to see her but has an appointment on the floor, Rachel makes a point of finding us and checking to make sure Peter is doing well. We have had many ups and downs over the past few years with lots of tears and moments of joy. Rachel has been there throughout. Nominated by Margie Burke

Rachel Shaw, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute I dealt with a rare cancer called double hit lymphoma and one of the major reasons I made it through was thanks to the work and kindness of a nurse named Rachel Shaw. Nurse Shaws smiling face was the first I saw on my very first day of treatment. Nurse Shaw treated me with kindness, caring, knowledge, intelligence, and so much more during my battle with this rare beast of cancer. The work, care, and kindness for me through the many dozens of treatments was nothing short of amazing. Nurse Shaw is the primary reason I made it through, and I owe my life to Rachel Shaw, Dr. David C. Fisher, and Dana-Farber. Nominated by Daniel Totten

Robin Sommers, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Ive been receiving treatment at the DFCI for about seven years. Robin Sommers has been my nurse practitioner all that time. Her dedication and genuine concern for her patients well-being is without question. Im certain theres a Robin Sommers on each floor at DFCI but Im blessed that on the seventh floor, shes my nurse. Nominated by Michael Glass

Katherine Stephans, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute I met Katie Stephans in 2013. She was part of my post-stem-cell transplant team at Dana-Farber. There was never a time when she wasnt able to understand my needs and guide me through recovery, and she has been with me ever since. In November of 2016, when I was faced with the news that my leukemia had returned and only limited treatments were available, Katie once again comforted me and, most importantly, listened to me. The most difficult part of my ordeal should be now as I face end-of-life issues, but Katie has held my hand, cried with me, laughed with me, and taken the time to comfort me and my family. I am at peace. She has so lovingly given me the strength to live each day with the care of hospice. Katie will be in my heart forever. Nominated by Ellen Bruce

Katherine Stephans, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Katie Stephans is a nurse practitioner on the leukemia/lymphoma floor at Dana-Farber. My husband Peter has battled lymphoma for the past 13 years and Katie has been there for most if not all of that time. Peters disease progressed rapidly a couple years ago and although a CT scan didnt show disease progression, Katie wasnt convinced and ordered a PET scan. I will never forget waiting for the news in one of the exam rooms. Peter and I were hoping for the best, but when Katie and Dr. Arnold Freedman walked in the room, we knew it was bad. Katie and Dr. Freedman were both overcome with emotion and quickly delivered the news but also gave us the plan of attack. I mention this because Peter and I both felt the love and compassion, and we knew that even though it was bad, they were going to take charge. That was two years ago and since then, Peter has had a stem cell transplant, a relapse, and another transplant for which our son was the bone marrow donor. This last transplant happened in July and was very difficult. Peter has battled infections and needed to have more stem cells from our son in October. Katie has helped me and Peter through this crisis. I remember running into her at Dana-Farber when Peter was hospitalized at Brigham and Womens with a terrible infection. I was in tears and filled with fear until I saw Katie. She comforted me and instantly I felt stronger. The staff at Dana-Farber are all amazing but Katie is extraordinary. She always takes time for not only Peter but for me and my million questions. She is a shining example of humanity at its best, and we are thankful she is on our team. Nominated by Margie Burke

Lisa Stewart, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute I am a leukemia patient. Or, I should say, I was a leukemia patient. Yes, I survived the 62 days as an inpatient along with chemo, a bone marrow transplant, relapse, acute GVHD, 22 bone marrow biopsies, etc. But, you cannot survive that unless you have support from many sources. Moreover, you cannot thrive afterwards without understanding the importance and endurance of that support from not just your own nurses, but from all the nurses and patients who had traveled the road before you. For me, it isnt about just one nurse or even one doctor or donor. Its about a cooperative river of support. Its about an army of nurses and a platoon of physicians. Its about millions of people who had joined The Match, so perhaps one match could be found for someone like me. Its about hundreds of technicians, lab and pathology assistants that I never saw. Its about the nursing staff in radiology, the infusion crowd, and the cleaning crews at night. Understand, that traveling along my little adventure with leukemia, there has been a steady, almost endless supply of empathetic, understanding, competent, bright, funny, humble, and dependable nurses who touched me, who changed me. You want names? Try, Kerry Hogan at BWH. Or, how about Susan Buchanan at DFCI? Dont forget my current nurse, Lisa Stewart at the Farber. She is terrific. The list is long. Recognize that the nurses that so critically helped me in the first months, passed that support to other nurses in year two. This seamless river of cooperative support as my needs and condition change, is astonishing. No, it is life-giving. It is something we can all learn from. Boston knows about this. Boston lived this notion of cooperative support at the Marathon. Lets pass that on to the patient ahead. Nominated by Brad Else

Lisa Stewart, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Since my stem cell transplant in 2013, Lisa has been available to answer and ease my mind every time I have a question. In March of last year, I was dealing with some very challenging symptoms that eventually led to a diagnosis of pneumonia and was being treated in another hospital in the area. My wife was not happy with my treatment and called Lisa for advice. She could not have been more caring, and eventually calmed us by explaining that, though my symptoms were similar, it was not a relapse of my cancer. She helped us understand why. This gifted nurse is a saint among us. Nominated by Rich Cormio

Charlotte Stone, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Charlotte Stone worked at the Jimmy Fund while she was taking care of her twin sisters, who both had nervous breakdowns within a year of each other and who were both hospitalized at McLean Hospital and in Brookline. She was also going to school, studying for her nursing boards, and also had to deal with her grandfather dying. She is an unbelievable daughter, student, and loving sister. Nominated by Colleen Stone

Caitlin Stratton, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Shortly after my daughter was diagnosed with cancer, we met Caitlin Stratton. When we first met her, we had no idea the impact should would have on our family during this frightening journey. She was one of many nurses assigned to us for home care during the week. One night, we called Caitlin in a panic because the VNA hadnt shown up yet and our daughter desperately needed her medication. Caitlin flew over and said, Im fixing this. Im going to be your only VNA nurse from now on. Caitlin was also a part-time nurse at the pediatric infusion clinic and worked full time on the floor where my daughter had a bone marrow transplant. When I awoke in the hospital those mornings, I would find coffee next to my cot left by Caitlin. Caitlin was around every corner of our lives for those few years, saving us all. Caitlin was honest with us, above everything else. She told us what to expect at every phase of treatment so we never went in blindly, allowing us to make better decisions about our daughters care. She made all the scary stuff so much easier for such a young patient who could not understand what was happening to her. When Caitlin came into our house, she was greeted with hugs by my daughter every time with, Hi Caitlin! No medicine. We laughed as that became Caitlins new name. She chose one of the hardest careers imaginable as a pediatric cancer nurse but one that she was clearly built to master. She was our angel all of those years and every day since, we are thankful she was placed in our path. Nominated by Heather Ingrando

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Ayla Priestley, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center On Jan. 18, my mother suffered a terrible and unexpected rupture of an undiagnosed brain aneurysm. During the first several weeks of her stay in the ICU at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, my mother was blessed to receive the care of Ayla Priestley. At a time that was so critical to her survival and when our family was so vulnerable to the fear of uncertainty, Ayla gave us comfort, hope, friendship, and certainty in her dedication to the most important woman in our lives. Not only did Ayla exhibit incredible finesse in her nursing skills and attentiveness to moms comfort and volatile condition, but she also possessed the necessary compassion for the human element of the patient and family. As Mom was unconscious, Ayla was her advocate medically and our familys advocate emotionally. Ayla made a very scary time and place in the ICU bearable and was always very open about answering our questions when she could see concern on our faces. Our most comforting days in the ICU with were those we shared with Ayla tending to our wife and mother. It takes a very special individual to recognize the profound significance of the consistent care of our loved ones to the family of those who are at their most vulnerable states. Ayla certainly exceeded this element of nursing. While nursing is a skill, it can also be a calling, and it is without a doubt that Ayla was meant for this. We attribute our mothers survival to the care she received over the many weeks she stayed in the ICU. Someday, we pray that Mom will be able to thank Ayla personally for her participation in saving her life, from one nurse to another. Thank you, Ayla. God bless you. Nominated by Lauren Nall

Davita Dialysis Center, Woburn

Dana Naso, Davita Dialysis Center, Woburn Dana Naso, clinical leader and nurse manager, is the most exemplary nurse leader/manager I have interacted with in 40 years of nursing. As a patient, I have witnessed and benefited from her expertise in dialysis management, her knowledge of every patient in the unit, and her ability to assist staff when complications require that a patient be transferred to a hospital. Dana is a positive role model and advocate for patients. She calms them, educates and reassures them, and often helps them make better decisions about their care. She is kind, friendly, and compassionate, and, when she laughs, it is infectious and a joy to hear as I sit there for a depressing, four-hour treatment. She brings me and other patients joy and comfort. Nominated by Janet Spellman

East Boston Neighborhood Health Center

Kelly Hennessy Gordon, East Boston Neighborhood Health Center Being a nurse myself, I know how exhausting this career can be. My daughter, Kelly, is a nurse practitioner who exemplifies what it is to be an excellent nurse both in the clinical setting as well as her home life. She lives close to my elderly mother-in-law, so she is always on call. She gets calls any time of the day or night for issues that arise and always rises to the occasion. She never complains about getting a call at 2 in the morning and still manages to go to work and do a full case load. Im not certain how well my mother-in-law would be living were it not for Kelly, but I do know that she has been instrumental in enabling things to go as smoothly as they do. When my mother-in-law has doctor appointments, Kelly will often go with her to speak about issues and advocate for her. Nominated by Maureen Hennessy

Veronica Moore, East Boston Neighborhood Heath Center Veronica Ronnie Moore has delivered compassionate, clinically expert care to patients in East Boston and Winthrop for more than 20 years. She currently is the Clinical Coordinator of the Family Medicine Practice at Winthrop Neighborhood Health, operated by East Boston Neighborhood Health Center. She has embraced the role of primary care nurse for community health, a critical role for the wellness of the community, providing chronically ill patients with the resources to manage their care at home and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. Patients know and ask for her by name, trust in her advice, and bring their children and grandchildren to see her. From health promotion and coaching to hands-on care, Ronnie is a trusted source of comfort and wellness for our community. Nominated by Cathy Franklin

Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital

Jan Farrington, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital Jan Farrington works out of the Edith Nourse Rogers VA hospital in Bedford. My father was a disabled World War II veteran who died there last year at the age of 95. Dads very long life and painless passing are in great part thanks to the exceptional care that Jan provided. The VA hospital staff was terrific, but my father was hospitalized for only two weeks before he died. For several years before that, Dad was cared for at home by Jan and the VA home care service. Through weekly home visits, Jan monitored my fathers cardiomyopathy and dementia. Visits with Jan were filled with joking and joy as she carefully monitored Dads mental and physical status. She communicated directly and frequently with Mom and me, physicians, specialists, and finally hospice workers to calibrate Dads medications so that he was able to enjoy the best possible quality of life at home even as we watched him slip away. When Dad became truculent, Jan charmed him into compliance. When he refused to bathe, Jan cajoled him into the shower with military precision and the profound respect she has for all who serve this country. Jans careful, ongoing assessment of Dads status and her sensitivity toward my mom and me helped us care for each other even as we prepared for Dads good death. When home care was no longer an option for my father, he was admitted to the VA hospital. Jan visited on her lunch break and checked in with the clinical team. Her careful, sensitive, and thorough care for my family helped us weather the long and difficult process of dying with grace. I lost my father last April but found an amazing friend in Jan Farrington, who exemplifies the best of her profession. Nominated by Gloria Cole

Emerson Hospital

Jennifer Camerano, Emerson Hospital Labor and Delivery Jenn Camerano is my sister. Through my two childrens births, she was by my side, supportive and reassuring. She helped me so much through birth, my first at only age 18. Jenn spends her days as a very busy mom of three and works overnights bringing babies into the world, which she absolutely loves. With her kids school and extracurricular stuff such as sports, dance, and karate, she is always on the go and puts everyone else before herself. She recently underwent surgery herself and was out of work for six weeks and went crazy being at home for so long. She also recently was a nurse of my friend, who had a baby there in December and told me how great a nurse she was and how helpful all the staff was. Jenn is the type to give the shirt off her back to help and often wears her heart on her sleeve. She is well deserving of recognition for being an amazing nurse. Nominated by Tracy Barnjum

Emerson Hospital Home Care

Diane Learned, Emerson Hospital Home Care Diane Learned not only excels as a home care nurse, she is also compassionate and thorough and cares for my parents as if she were part of the family. Over many years, Diane has cared for my parents, both 91, and most recently cared for my mother after a fall in December. Her caring manner always puts my mother at ease, and she addresses all the needs of the patient including answering questions. Dianes communication with doctors and the Coumadin Clinic are professional and she makes sure my parents understand treatments. After a visit with my parents, Diane always reviews the visit with me and wants my input. My questions are always answered. If she doesnt have an answer, shell find it and follow up. I value Dianes visits as much as my parents do. Between visits, if a situation arises, its not unusual for one of us to say, Diane is coming, shell know what to do. And, she always does. It is an honor to salute Diane. Nominated by Mona Mondano

Evercare Health Care

Jill Medynski, Evercare Health Care Sometimes extraordinary nursing care is provided at the bedside of a patient who has chosen to remain at home for their last days. The difficulty is that, not only does the patient need care, but also the family who is there as well. End-of-life care is not easy, as the patient cannot communicate their needs as they are dying. It is the skill of the nurse who must interpret what to do from the ever-changing signs that the patient is presenting. Is that shoulder twitch a sign that the patient is uncomfortable? Is the quiet breathing a prelude to the peaceful end that we all hope for? I watched my daughter use her well-honed nursing skills to help her father and family to honor my husbands wish that he die at home. It was a long and difficult five days. The hospice nurses provided intermittent support, but it was my daughter who provided the nonstop care. Her nursing expertise, combined with love, provided the kind of death we all wish for and deserve. Nominated by Debra Cohen

Everett Care Center

Nadine Marsan, Everett Care Center Nadine Marsan is a great person and nurse; she has a lot of empathy for our patients. She is always willing to help. Nominated by Jessie Alas

Falmouth Hospital

Lora Tutuny, Falmouth Hospital I am nominating my mother, Lora Tutuny. She has devoted her life to the medical field. She takes great pride in the work she does at Falmouth Hospital. Constantly putting in long hours, like most nurses do, and I may be a little biased, but she does so much more. Not only did she continue to work when she herself was diagnosed with cancer in 2013, but during the fall of last year when her sister fell ill, the nurse in her was by her side every single day off and weekend. Her sister had a short and tough battle with esophageal cancer, and my mother was a pillar of strength for our entire family. She didnt leave her hospital room for the last week of her life, because she wanted to make sure she was comfortable and had everything she needed. She is an amazing mother and an extraordinary nurse. Nominated by Elaine Tutuny

Faulkner Community Physicians at Hyde Park

Sue Webb, Faulkner Community Physicians at Hyde Park Sue Webb joined our practice four years ago, after working at New England Sinai Hospital for 25 years. I am one of three physicians in the practice, which also includes one physicians assistant. We serve a diverse patient population that includes the elderly and immigrants from the Caribbean, Central America, and West Africa. Many of our patients deal with mental health and substance abuse problems. Sue is invaluable to our practice. She is always kind and patient and extraordinarily well organized. Sue is adept at coordinating care with patients after they are discharged from the hospital. She has a great rapport with many visiting nurse agencies that repeatedly tell me our office is one of the best to work with in coordinating patient care. This is largely because of Sue and her efforts. She has also worked to address the opiate addiction problem while ensuring that patients with chronic pain have their needs addressed. Nominated by Ron Warner

Fenway Health

Peg Nelson, Fenway Health Peg Nelson of the Fenway is a nurse who does impressive work and cares for others in ways that are beyond our expectations, but she is also an angel who is responsible for all the unnoticed things. Her duties are not only giving shots or taking temperatures. Peg also calls me often to check up on me, finds me to give me one of her warm and tight hugs, calls me when she hasnt seen me, talks with me and holds my hand. She has become the caring and selfless person who personifies what being a nurse is, a simple statement with a powerful effect on me and many others. She is not only a great person in the office, but also a great nurse out of her office. I think of her as the angel of nurses and humans. Nominated by Ernest Berardinelli

Fertility Center of New England

Katelyn Driscoll, Fertility Centers of New England Katelyn Driscoll is one of many outstanding nurses at the Fertility Center of New England. She is an amazing, caring, and compassionate nurse. She accommodates her patients needs while they are going through such a personal, emotional, and challenging process. She always makes you smile and feel very comfortable; she makes you feel like you are a priority and a very important patient to both her and to the fertility center. She strives to make sure that her patients stay positive and reduces their anxiety no matter how the situation turns out. Katelyn is truly an astonishing nurse who deserves the highest recognition. Nominated by Kerry Stephens

Alicia Paquin, Fertility Center of New England Alicia Paquin is an amazing individual. She has so much dedication and compassion towards her patients. Ive had many interactions and conversations with Alicia during 2016. Although I have never physically met her, I feel like I have known her for a long time. I never have to worry about getting a call back or response. She understands the difficulties I was experiencing and I could feel her empathy and compassion in every conversation we had. Every office needs an Alicia to comfort their patients and be their first line of communication. Nominated by Jill Lacaillade

Franciscan Childrens

Jocelyn Cassola, Franciscan Childrens Jocelyn is a charge RN here at Franciscan Childrens. Every day I work with Jocelyn I see her display compassion, clinical competency, excellent communication, and advocacy. Franciscan Childrens is a post-acute rehab that cares for pediatric patients with complex medical needs. Because of this, Jocelyn needs to be flexible and have knowledge in many different systems. We have many new nurses here, who turn to Jocelyn for guidance whether it be for communicating, engaging in family teaching, or performing a medical skill. As charge RN, Jocelyn communicates with the interdisciplinary team, including not only the team at Franciscan Childrens but also outside providers. Jocelyn helps to ensure that communication among all of these people is as seamless as possible for the patients and their families. While excellent at communicating, she makes advocating for the patient a priority. Whether it be with the medical team, therapies, or case workers, Jocelyn is always reaching out and going the extra mile for the patient. Families and patients praise her and the work she does. The connection she has with the families and patients is one that cannot be learned. She is naturally personable, caring, and trustworthy. She strives to improve the systems and processes at the hospital, working for the common goal of patient safety. Nominated by Meghan Glynn

Christine Lyons Dunn, Franciscan Childrens Christine Lyons Dunn is the Utilization Review Nurse for the McLean-Franciscan Child/Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatric Unit at Franciscan Childrens. She has been a nurse for many years working with children and families and now she advocates with insurance companies so the children we take care of can stay in the hospital for the length of time they need and get the services they deserve. She advocates daily, arguing with insurance companies to make sure each child is well cared for. She cares about every child she is reviewing on. She attends daily rounds to make sure she understands each childs needs and can advocate for the clinicians treatment plans with the insurance companies. We are very fortunate to have her here at Franciscan Childrens. She is a team player, an advocate, and a very knowledgeable professional about mental health care, especially when it comes to work with children and adolescents with mental health struggles. Nominated by Kara McTague

Christine Lyons Dunn, Franciscan Childrens Christine Lyons Dunn is the utilization review nurse for the McLean-Franciscan Child Adolescent Psychiatric Inpatient Unit. Christine is extremely dedicated to her job at the hospital, and it is evident through every one of her interactions with the kids, their parents, the insurance companies she reviews with, and each social worker, nurse, mental health counselor, and doctor on the unit. Christine takes the time to get to know each patients case and advocate for them using her wealth of clinical knowledge and compassion for the kids/families on the unit. Christine will come to early, work through lunch, stay late, whatever it takes to do a job that makes her proud and makes all of her co-workers proud to call her a colleague. Nominated by Katie Verhamme

Debbie Iavonna, Franciscan Childrens Debbie Iavonna is stationed at nursing administration. She is a very friendly and courteous person. She is always ready to share her knowledge and expertise with me to ensure our children and staffs are in a safe and clean environment. It is my belief that her type of demeanor enables her to work well with everyone. I found her to be very respectful even when we are challenged. I am humbled to have such a privilege to work with her. Nominated by Lionel Olivier

Meghan McCaffrey, Franciscan Childrens I have had the privilege of working with Meghan McCaffrey for the past several months and have always noted her as bringing positive energy to our unit and great care to our children and families. As a social worker on our unit, I understand the challenges of burnout and how stressors can impact ones ability to function at work. Im consistently impressed by her ability to bring the same energy and positivity and care each day, no matter the circumstance. Most recently, I witnessed her provide compassion and care to one of my patients families. She took the time to really support the parents and spoke with them at length to validate the difficult time and help them provide care for their child. She exhibits tremendous care and compassion and is able to help our families feel supported and able to trust in the quality of care that our staff are able to provide. Were very lucky to have a nurse who provides this level of compassionate care. Nominated by KJ Lindquist

Phyllis McDonough, Franciscan Childrens Phyllis McDonough has excellent skills in her proficiency as a nurse and in her social interaction with babies and their parents. Shes always cheerful and loving with the babies; she talks to them in her soothing voice. Her spirit is big and generous and loving. The parents are always comfortable in her presence. Phyllis is also very helpful with the nurses on her unit. Phyllis never acts tired or under pressure. I really admire her peaceful countenance. She respects every single baby and knows a lot about patience. Theres a rhythm in her pace that is very wholesome for healing. Theres never a doubt that babies are safe under her care. Nominated by Carmela DElia

Fresh Pond Womens Health

Carol Tallon, Fresh Pond Womens Health Carol Tallon always meets me exactly where I amwithout judgment, haste, or superiority. She is like my angel. She took the time, (and always does) to find out what was going on, to make me feel heard, validated, remembered, and thought of. She treats me with authenticity, dignity, and utmost compassion. She understands the sensitivity of her job, and excels at it with grace. She gave me answers that nobody else took the time to find, and I always wish I could really thank her the way she deserves. I even have a line about her impact on my life in one of my songs. Nominated by Sarah Blacker

Golden Living Center, West Newton

Gladys Dupuy, Golden Living Center, West Newton Gladys Dupuy is a caring, supportive, and generous nurse. She watches over her residents and patients with a keen, observant eye, making sure they are doing and feeling well. She has been doing this job for more than 25 years, and her compassion and skill set are well honed. She earns the trust of everyone she encounters by following through on all aspects of their care, from contacting the medical provider to monitoring new updates to their care plan to teaching discharge skillsall with a sense of humor and commitment. Gladys works quietly and efficiently with minimum fuss and maximum results. She truly represents the art and the science of nursing, and it is my pleasure to acknowledge her as a great nurse and a truly wonderful person. I salute you, Gladys Dupuy, for your kind and generous nature and your attention to all aspects of the residents care. Nominated by Kathleen Lewis Wilson

Vera Fenell, Golden Living Center, West Newton Vera Fenell is a very efficient nurse and very compassionate with staff and especially residents. She has a wonderful sense of humor. In seven months here, Ive felt completely at home. She has an extraordinary attitude with the patients. She is the right hand of the CEO, who depends on her judgment completely. Her presence makes this a great place. Nominated by Mary Kirst

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Salute to Nurses 2017 Letters: CG - Boston.com

Cheryl Rosen, the Chairman of the Board for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation, talks about the organization. Mark Vergari/lohud

Cheryl Rosen, the Chairman of the Board for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation, is pictured at her home in Scarsdale with her 7-year-old Boxer, Shayna, April 20, 2017. The dog is also a therapy dog. (Photo: Mark Vergari/The Journal News)Buy Photo

It is one of the worst pronouncements a person can hear from a doctor that youve got cancer now imagine that diagnosis is for a child.

No one believes its going to happen to them and all of a sudden your world turns upside down, says Cheryl Rosen. Thrown into a world of phrases and drugs and a journey into hell and you come out on the other side.

Rosen is the Chairman of The Pediatric Cancer Foundation (PCF). The group has been part of the fight to find a cure for the last 45 years, helping local Westchester families and raising funds for needed research.

Started in 1970, the Mamaroneck-based advocacy group of volunteers also offersemotional help forfamilies and individuals. Throughfundraising, PCFsupports six hospitals with cancer programs inNew York and Chicagoby purchasingequipment forresearch and testing for life-saving procedures in pediatric cancer treatment.

We take pride in the long standing relationships with these hospitals, says Rosen. They are at the forefront of research and clinical trials leading to important research.

DOUBLE-BLIND:Cancer drug trial volunteer will never know which treatment she got

According to the American Cancer Society, pediatric cancers are different than what normally develops in adults.They includeAcute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL),Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL),Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL), and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).Brain tumors and unique solid tumors such as Neuroblastoma, Wilms Tumor and sarcomas are alsocommon.

"PCF has been instrumental in providing critical grant support over the past quarter of a century to help raise the cure rate in pediatric cancer from approximately 50-60 percent to 85-90 percent today," says Dr. Mitchell S. Cairo, ChiefofPediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantationat Maria Fareri.

The group has raised more than $500,000 towards research for hospitals that include Maria Fareri, New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Childrens Hospital, Stephen D. Hassenfeld Childrens Center for Cancer at NYU Langone Medical Center, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Feinstein Institute of Medical Research Northwell Health and University of Chicago Medicine Comer Childrens Hospital.

Dr. Cairo describes PCF as instrumental in providing millions of dollars in critical grant support to raise the cure rate.

"Major accomplishments over the past 40 years have occurred in pediatric(cancers)," says Cairo. ALL, NHL, HL, Wilms Tumor amongothers." He cites emotional support for family members as another important factorin theprocess.

"Parental support is a key component in the management and care of a child with cancer. Emotional, psychological, economic and social support from parents are critical components to the success of a child newly diagnosed with cancer."

For families like Dana and Carmine Gentile, thereality of cancer can be earth-shattering.

Carmine Gentileremembers the first signs something was wrong with her then 6-year-old daughter, Gia, before the Hawthorne family received an eventualdiagnosis of stage four pediatric cancer.

She had a low grade fever, and low back pain;shes a cheerleader and thought she had gotten hurt, says Carmine Gentile.

After a chest x-ray and blood work resulted in an early diagnosis of muscular pain, Gia's continued and excruciating pain led toan ultrasound that revealed the problem.

On Oct. 28 they did testing and diagnosed her with stage four neuroblastoma cancer,says Gentile.

"The first couple months were the toughest for us," he says. Gentile describes his daughter as a trooper throughout her ordeal. Gia was treated at the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital at Westchester Medical Center.

Today, Gia is doing well, says her father. "She is great she has good days and bad days,on the good days she's playful and energetic," he says.

PCF helped the entire Gentilefamily which includesGordana, 5 years old andSantino, who is 4 years old.

"They visited with us during the holidaysand bought small gifts for the children," says Gentile. "Speaking to people that understand whatyoure going through on a daily basis .... they put things in perspective."

Gia Gentile with family and PCF President Bonnie Shyer at 23rd Annual Walkathon in New York City(Photo: Courtesy of Dana and Carmine Gentile)

Giving supportto families through the uncertainty of illness is why organizations like PCF exist, says CheylRosen.

Our mission is to eradicate pediatric cancer by providing funding for much needed research in the field, supply much needed medical equipment and provide patient and parents care, she says.

Rosen became involved after her son Daniel gotsick.

He went through eight cycles of high doses of chemotherapyand 30 days of radiation.

I became involved after my son Daniel, at the age of 14, contracted stage four Hodgkins cancer, she says. The treatment is all-consuming and the protocols ...He was diagnosed in April 2004 and completed treatment in November."

Cheryl Rosen, the Chairman of the Board for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation, is pictured at her home in Scarsdale, April 20, 2017. (Photo: Mark Vergari/The Journal News)

Daniel has been cancer-free since 2004.

We were as a family looking for a way to give back, she says.

Rosenjoined PCF as a volunteer, became president and now serves as the Chairman of the Board. Because they were there for us when Daniel was sick, we wanted to give back in gratitude.

They help with family phone callsand clarification on procedures and medicine associated with cancer procedures. With her firsthand knowledge of cancer, she helps families struggling with the diagnosis.

One of the biggest roles Ive taken is being the face of the organization and reaching out to parents, offering insights."

Rosen says PCF has raised roughly $15 million throughout the years. Theorganization includesthreepart time staff members, 28 board members and 60 volunteers for fundraising events.They hold four major fundraisers through the year.

Rosen with her therapy dog Shayna says there's still more work to be done.

The worst thing in the world is to go in a hospital ward and see the children suffering."

Twitter:@krhudsonvalley

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Connecting the dots between insulin resistance, unhealthy blood ... Science Daily This research highlights biological mechanisms driven by insulin resistance that impair blood vessel health and may be shared by both cancer and ... and more »

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Connecting the dots between insulin resistance, unhealthy blood ... - Science Daily

Stem Cell Therapy is known as regenerative medicine, it has a unique property of regeneration in the cell. Stem cell therapy are having two categories, the first one is embryonic and the second one is adult stem cell, and based on the property of regeneration the stem cell are having another categories like Multipotent, Pluripotent, Unipotent cell and others. Stem cell therapy is used in various treatment like blood cancer, Alzheimer, Stroke, Spinal Cord Injury and many others. Many players are working in the R&D of stem cell to come up with various treatment product for animals. Players are initially focusing on the arthritis problem solving in the canine and other animals. The extraction of stem cell are done from human umbilical cord tissue, bone marrow and adipose tissue. The advancement in the treatment of canine is also coming with mixing of two therapy as PRP and stem cell for modulating inflammation and regeneration of damage tissue. Further many other combined therapy are coming in the market for the treatment of canine from all type of diseases.

Canine Stem Cell Therapy: Drivers & Restraints

Canine Stem Cell Therapy Market is a developing market as many product are having their present in the market. The demand of canine stem cell therapy is high, for instance, a report published by Metropolitan Veterinary Center, Chicago, around 155 canines suffering from osteoarthritis were treated with stem cell therapy, and 99% of the canines show improvement. Players and research institutes are working to develop a products to treat the other diseases of canine like canine cognitive dysfunctions which is similar to Alzheimers dementia. The costing and the reimbursement is the current restraints and also the awareness of canine stem cell therapy in the current market.

Canine Stem Cell Therapy: Segmentation

Segmentation by Product Type

Xenogeneic, Allogeneic, Autologous, Type 1, Type 2

Segmentation by End User

Veterinary Hospitals, Veterinary Clinics, Veterinary Research Institutes

Based on Geography

North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa

The market of canine stem cell therapy is a growing market over the forecast period. As the players coming with the product and show high success rate of treatment. As the animal welfare act law came in 1966 in the U.S, than after that the societies are more taking care of the animal. One of the players name as Regeneus Ltd, from Australia is coming with the product for canine for the treatment of osteoarthritis and tendinopathy name as CryoShot Canine. CryoShot canine is for osteoarthritis and provide pain relief for a longer time a single injection. Various clinical research and advanced technology combination are going on for canine diseases treatments like diabetes, cancer and others, the final product will also available soon in the market.

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As a geography conditions the Canine Stem Cell Therapy Market is segmented into: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa. North America have the market for canine stem cell therapy as the population are much aware of the therapy and take caring of the animals, and many help line are also there for animals like Pet Poison Helpline, USA and many others. Asia-pacific is also the market for canine stem cell therapy as

Some players in Canine Stem Cell Therapy Market is VETSTEM BIOPHARMA, Aratana Therapeutics, Medivet Biologics LLC, Okyanos, Vetbiologics, VetMatrix, Magellan Stem Cells, ANIMAL CELL THERAPIES, INC., stemcellvet.co.uk., Cell Therapy Sciences, and Regeneus Ltd.

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Canine Stem Cell Therapy Market Estimated to Flourish by 2017 2025 : Persistence Market Research - MilTech

Treatment of pregnant patients with bone and joint injuries ... Science Daily Nearly one in 1000 pregnant women in the United States suffer bone and joint injuries due to car crashes, domestic violence, drug or alcohol use, ... and more »

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Treatment of pregnant patients with bone and joint injuries ... - Science Daily

Single gene encourages growth of intestinal stem cells, supporting 'niche' cells, and cancer Science Daily A gene previously identified as critical for tumor growth in many human cancers also maintains intestinal stem cells and encourages the growth of cells that support them, according to results of a study led by Johns Hopkins researchers. The finding ... and more »

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Single gene encourages growth of intestinal stem cells, supporting 'niche' cells, and cancer - Science Daily

Lynda McKenzie was in her early 30s when she started noticing some odd physical symptoms. She was a single mother of two who owned a small crafts shop in Milton, Ontario, and everyday tasks at home and work were becoming more challenging. My right leg was dragging, I had a slight tremor and my voice was getting softer, says McKenzie. Also, my writing was getting smaller it seemed like messages werent going from my brain to my hands.

Dr. Claire Henchcliffe

As time went on, her symptoms became more intense, and in 1987 McKenzie went to a doctor who diagnosed her with Parkinsons disease. At age 34, the news came as a shock, but it was helpful because she could finally seek treatments that might help. One included a double-blind placebo surgical study led by Dr. Curt Freed of the University of Colorado. Half the patients enrolled in the study received a transplantation of fetal brain tissue cells meant to change the brains chemistry and alleviate Parkinsons symptoms. One of those patients was McKenzie.Two decades later, Weill Cornell Medicine physician-scientist Dr. Claire Henchcliffe, decided to revisit Dr. Freeds study which, at the time it was conducted, was considered groundbreaking and potentially game-changing. As a clinician-scientist focused on studying the pathology of Parkinsons disease for decades, she wondered how the surviving patients were doing today, and what implications that might have for contemporary research into stem cell-based transplants for Parkinsons patients. No one had systematically gone back to see how effective the tissue injections had been over the long term, says Dr. Henchcliffe, an associate professor in the Department of Neurology and the Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute. Knowing how these patients are doing could provide insight and direction for future research.

BRAIN SCANS: PET images of a healthy volunteer (box A) and of a man whos had Parkinsons for eight years (box B). Photo Provided.

During the transplant study, which ran from May 1995 to January 1998, Dr. Freed and his colleagues surgically implanted fetal brain tissue into patients brains in the hope of replenishing their levels of dopamine a chemical that helps coordinate the bodys movements, but which is depleted by Parkinsons. Overall, within a year of the procedure, the patients dopamine levels did increase. Unfortunately, though, the transplants didnt offer the cure that McKenzie and her fellow patients had wished for: their symptoms relented for a while, but ultimately returned. Their disease continued to progress, albeit more slowly than it might have otherwise.

The patients Dr. Henchcliffe met with had been diagnosed at an early age and had been living with Parkinsons for a long time at least 28 years and as long as 36 which is unusual among patients with early Parkinsons diagnoses, who usually have a decreased life expectancy compared to those diagnosed later in life. In the three who received PET scans, her team found that the implanted fetal tissue had survived in its intended location in the brain. Whats more, she says, the patients levels of dopamine were a lot more robust than what youd expect at this late stage of Parkinsons disease. That increased dopamine had had a generally helpful effect: their symptoms, while serious, were markedly less severe than what doctors would have anticipatedinthe normal course of Parkinsons. They were functioning at a higher-than- expected level, Dr. Henchcliffe says, which was a big surprise. They took comparatively few medications, and two were walking without walkers and living independently.

While Dr. Freeds study did not ultimately revolutionize Parkinsons treatment, Dr. Henchcliffe says, it offers valuable insights into how todays neuroscientists may design cell transplant therapies, and suggests that tissue transplants that deliver dopamine into the brain could provide a durable, long-lasting treatment for Parkinsons disease. Building on the promise of the long-term results of Dr. Freeds study, Dr. Henchcliffe is eager to explore with a team of collaborators at Weill Cornell Medicine and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center how human embryonic stem cells could improve the lives of Parkinsons patients: Dr. Henchcliffe believes that dopamine neurons derived from the stem cells would more accurately and effectively promote the brains production of dopamine. Pharmaceutical treatments can add dopamine to the brain, but they arent perfect: they require people to take medication for life, and they have limitations over the long term, says Dr. Henchcliffe. A transplant approach, on the other hand, could get to the root of the problem.The added dopamine did not appear to help alleviate all symptoms of Parkinsons, however, just some of the lost motor skills; some patients still experienced the depression, dizziness on standing and drooling commonly seen in the disease. And Dr. Henchcliffe also found that the added tissue had caused some adverse effects normally only associated with very late stages of Parkinsons and with overdoses of some Parkinsons medications. Three patients were suffering from involuntary jerking movements, called dyskinesia, and one developed oral-facial dystonia a lack of control over the mouth, tongue and jaw muscles that caused grimacing.

- Erica Cirino

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Back to the Future - Cornell Chronicle

Stem Cell Therapy

We were recently featured in an interview with KING-5 news on stem cell therapy. If you would like to see that interview, please click here.

*Please note this page is currently under editing*

Regenerative cells promote healing and regeneration of injured ordamaged tissue. Stem cells are regenerative cells that can differentiateinto multiple cell types to form new functional tissue. Regenerative cells may also secrete factors that reduce autoimmune responses and inflammation, promote cell survival, and stimulate tissue regeneration. Researchdone over the last decade has shown remarkable results with the use of stemcell therapy in treatingosteoarthritis, as well as aiding in the recovery of dogs that have undergone an orthopedic surgical procedure. The procedure is completed same-day, and is performed using a small sample of your dog's abdominal adipose (fat) tissue.

The Adipose Stem Cell procedure has been used successfully on many Dogs, Cats and Horses for the treatment of osteoarthritis and bone and ligament injuries both here in the United States and overseas.

This procedure is now available here in Seattle by Mayo Veterinary Services. In fact, we arethe only mobile veterinary practice in Seattle to offer this groundbreaking, totally "in house" therapy.

Stem Cell Procedure can be an alternative to:

Frequently Asked Questions

First of all you'll need to understand what stem cells are and what they actually do. Stem cells are special in that they can differentiate into many different types of tissue including muscle, nerve, cartilage, bone,fat, liver, and so on. They occur naturally in the body and are drawn to areas which are damaged. They then quickly act to repair the damaged tissue. Studies have shown that these stem cells help repair damaged cartilage and bone tissue, decrease inflammation (and pain), heal damaged cells, prevent further cell deterioration, and promote active tissue regeneration.

Unlike the stem cell therapy that has been used in human medicine for many years - this new technology uses only adult stem cells harvested from the pet's own body. This means no fetal cells are involved so no ethical or moral values are at stake.

It's a completely natural therapy - just the body healing itself with a little help from modern technology.

It has been discovered that "dormant" stem cells are found in large quantities in body fat.

First, we harvest these "dormant" stem cells by removing around 10 grams of fat from your pet's body through a small incision in the abdomen. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes around 15 minutes. We also take a sample of your pet's blood to harvest the platelet rich plasma, which is then added to the stem cell sample. For more information on platelet rich plasma, seethe tab labeled Platelet Enhanced Therapy. This sample then undergoes a series of patented processing steps in our "in house" laboratory until a final concentrated suspension of of activated stem cells is obtained. Portions of this final suspension are then injected back into your pets' painful joints or bloodstream to ensure maximum potency. This final step is performed under sedation or short general anesthesia, depending on the individual case. Because the whole laboratory process is performed in house, the whole procedure is completed in just one day.

So far, many thousands of dogs, cats and horses worldwide have received the Adipose Stem Cell treatment and studies have shown that 80% of dogs showed an improved quality of life. Some dogs treated in the clinical trials were able to completely give up their daily non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID)medications, and many others were able to reduce their daily dose just 90 days after treatment:

Owners have reported:

At the moment, Stem Cell Therapy is limited to arthritis and damage to orthopedic soft tissue damage (joints, ligaments, cartilage, tendons) and fractures. We are using it for other purposes on a limited basis, to include urinary incontinence, allergies, kidney failure, and some liver disease. We are also treating Degenerative Myelopathy in some dogs.

Stem cell therapy is not suitable for cancer patients or patients with active infections.

No. All patients must undergo a thorough screening process for suitability. This generally involves X-Rays of the affected joints, abdominal and chest area (to rule out tumors) as well as blood tests (to rule out any other underlying disease).

No. Stem Cell therapy is not a"cure-all" for all bone and soft tissue damage. Results between individual cases will vary. Its effectiveness as a therapy has only been highlighted through thousands of reports on pets having undergone the procedure.

We can only rely on the data obtained through documented case studies to support the procedure. An old dog with arthritis can't become a puppy again, but we hope to reduce the pain and inflammation caused by the disease,thereby providing better quality of life. We also expect greater mobility and less reliance on medications after the procedure.

There are risks involved with any anesthetic procedure, and it is important to talk with your veterinarian about theseprior toscheduling any surgery. Beyond the potential anesthetic risk, there is very minimal risk involved in this procedure. First of all, the surgery and all laboratory processing is performed under strict aseptic conditions so there's little risk of infection. Secondly, all injected cells come from your own pet so there is no rejection by the body. Finally - the stem cells harvested from your pet are not modified in any way. They are simply activated so that they can do the job nature has intended for them.

Rest is important for 30 days following the procedure, combined with limited exercise and some physical therapy which you can easily do at home. Your vet will explain details of the aftercare, includingthe necessary progress checks. Stem cell treatment is an exciting technological breakthrough for humans and animals alike, and we are just now beginning to discover its many benefits.

If you believe your pet may be a candidate for Stem Cell treatment, please contact us to arrange an initial consultation to discuss your pets' suitability and for us to answer any further questions you may have.

Stem cell preparation requires a short surgical procedure in which Dr. Mayo will harvest a small amount of fat from your dog's abdomen. Then, in about 90 minutes,he will prepare the stem cells for injection into the proposed treatment area. The costs are much cheaper than they havehistorically been, and the procedure is performed in one visit to the doctor's office.

For more information on stem cell therapy, please call Dr. Mayo at 425-967-7999.

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Stem Cell Therapy - Mayo Veterinary Services

For immediate release

The Morehead-Cain Foundation announces its Class of 2021

Sixty-six new Morehead-Cain Scholars from across North Carolina, the US and the world will matriculate at UNC-Chapel Hill this fall

(Chapel Hill, N.C. April 28, 2017) The Morehead-Cain Foundation, home of the first merit scholarship program in the U.S. and founded at the first public university in the country, is proud to announce its class of 2021.

This fall, Morehead-Cain will welcome to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 66 new Morehead-Cain Scholars from across North Carolina, the U.S. and the world. The class of 2021 includes:

The Morehead-Cain Scholarship covers all expenses for four years of undergraduate study at UNC-Chapel Hill. It also features a distinctive program of summer enrichment experiences designed to support students as they learn and grow. During the course of four summers, scholars will have opportunities to complete an outdoor leadership course, commit themselves to public service in the U.S. or abroad, conduct research at sites around the world and gain experience in private enterprise.

The Summer Enrichment Program is complemented by the Morehead-Cain Discovery Fund. Scholars are encouraged and receive financial support to more deeply explore their interests, whether those involve studying under celebrated artists, attending leadership retreats or obtaining wilderness first responder certification. From researching food and agriculture industries in Iceland to examining the impact of innovation and entrepreneurship in post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans, Morehead-Cain Scholars have the resources to pursue educational opportunities wherever they may find them.

As set out in the programs founding documents, selection criteria for the Morehead-Cain are leadership, moral force of character, academic achievement and physical vigor. Morehead-Cain recipients are chosen solely on the basis of merit and accomplishment.

More than 200 Morehead-Cain Scholars study on campus, making outstanding contributions across the full range of University life. From student government to community service to the performing arts, Morehead-Cain Scholars play a prominent role in Carolinas vibrant student community. For example, during the past ten years, six student body presidents, four student attorneys general and four honor court chairs have all been Morehead-Cains.

Since 2000, 14 Morehead-Cain Scholars have won Rhodes Scholarships to Englands Oxford University, one of the worlds most competitive and prestigious awards for graduate study. Since the first Morehead Scholars graduated from Carolina in 1957, 31 of UNCs 34 Rhodes Scholars have been Morehead-Cain Scholars.

Morehead-Cains have accounted for 25 of the Universitys 38 Luce Scholars and 19 of Carolinas 30 Truman Scholars, among the nations most generous and distinguished awards for graduate study. Twenty-seven Morehead-Cain Scholars have won Fulbright Fellowships, three have won Gates Cambridge Scholarships for graduate study at the University of Cambridge in England and two Morehead-Cains were among the inaugural class of Schwarzman Scholars, an elite China-based graduate scholarship that enrolled its first students in 2016.

Like the scholars, the 3,000 Morehead-Cain Alumni across the world are a diverse and distinguished group. They include:

Founded in 1945, the Morehead-Cain has been a model for countless merit awards throughout the United States. These include the University of Virginias Jefferson Scholars Program, Duke Universitys Benjamin N. Duke Scholars Program and Emory Universitys Woodruff Scholars Program.

For more information, visit http://www.moreheadcain.org/ or call the Foundation at (919) 962-1201. Portraits of scholarship recipients can be downloaded at http://unc.photoshelter.com.

Class of 2021

New Morehead-Cain Scholars are listed below alphabetically by North Carolina county, state and country. Students noted with an asterisk (*) are listed in more than one location.

NORTH CAROLINA

AlamanceLauren Emily Gornto will graduate this spring from Western Alamance High School in Elon, where she is director of WA Cappella, her schools co-ed a cappella group. She arranges music, creates rehearsal and meeting agendas and helps lead the award-winning group. Lauren also sits on Alamance Childrens Theatre Board of Directors, has served as her classs president each year since her first in high school, and formed an after-school tutoring program at her former middle school. She is interested in exploring law and chemistry. Lauren is the daughter of Meredith and John Gornto Jr. of Burlington.

BertieJason Ray Cowan will graduate this spring from Bertie Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics High School in Windsor, where he is president of the STEM Senior Beta Club, vice president of the Student Government Association and a defense attorney for teen court. Jason has helped several teens avoid criminal punishments in exchange for performing community service. He also enjoys running and has served as captain of the distance team. Jason is excited to study English, business and law. He is the son of Robbie and Tonya Cowan of Lewiston.

BuncombeWilliam Grant Everist (Grant) will graduate this spring from Asheville High School in Asheville, where he is very involved with student government, serving for all four years and focusing on projects such as making prom and homecoming more affordable, teacher and staff appreciation breakfasts and leadership training. Grant is also president of the Spanish Club, runs his own business selling bracelets and has served as captain of his schools soccer, baseball, tennis and Frisbee teams. He is interested in studying international relations and economics. Grant is the son of William and Mary Everist of Asheville.

Sophia Wessels Swift (Sophie) will graduate this spring from North Buncombe High School in Weaverville, where her love of dance has led her to choreograph her schools productions of Legally Blonde and Footloose. Sophie also serves as student body vice president and co-captain of the girls varsity tennis team and is a member of the Kai Orbus robotics team. She is interested in studying math and physics and may pursue a career in biomedical engineering or teaching. She is the daughter of Todd and Tami Swift of Weaverville.

BurkeAndrew Philip McRacken (Drew) will graduate this spring from Freedom High School in Morganton, where he started Bulldogs in the Lab, an interactive program that teaches elementary school students about science. He also serves as drum captain in his schools award-winning marching band, is a leader in his churchs youth group and co-founded his schools first 3D printing club. Drew is interested in learning about biomedical engineering and biochemistry and is thinking about careers in medicine. He is the son of Mark McRacken and Lisa Moses of Mooresville.

CabarrusKelsie Naomi King will graduate this spring from Hickory Ridge High School in Harrisburg, where she is student body president, an officer in the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) club, and captain of youth ushers at The Park Church. Kelsie also built the volunteer relationship between her school and Carillon Assisted Living Center, as well as coordinated her schools first annual Jingle Bell Run. Kelsie is interested in studying biology and biochemistry. She is the daughter of Kelsey and Michelle King of Harrisburg.

CumberlandNathan John Pait will graduate this spring from Village Christian Academy in Fayetteville, where he is student body president, organizing fundraisers, community-service events and student experiences, such as Homecoming Week. He is also a member of the Mock Trial team and editor-in-chief of the yearbook, and he loves to act in school shows and community theater. Nathan is interested in studying biology and chemistry. He is the son of Kevin and Janna Pait of Fayetteville.

DuplinRichard Foster Livingston will graduate this spring from Wallace-Rose Hill High School in Teachey, where he is co-president of his schools chapter of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and treasurer of Student Government. Richard is also an Eagle Scout, founded his schools first Quiz Bowl team and serves as volunteer coordinator for the Carolina Strawberry Festival. Richard is interested in studying biology and Spanish and wants to explore careers in health care. He is the son of Matthew Livingston of Wallace and Manya Kline of Wake Forest.

Durham*Amruthansh Swamy Sriperumbudur (Amruth) will graduate this spring from the North Carolina School of Science & Mathematics in Durham, where he is senior senator and head of the Outreach Committee. It is his job to help facilitate interactions between the student body, faculty and staff. Amruth is also a student researcher, captain of the Mock Trial team and plays on his schools two-time state championship-winning tennis team. He is interested in studying mathematics and business. Amruth is the son of Chakradhar and Srilaxmi Sriperumbudur of Cary.

GuilfordGrace Lane Fulton Henley (Laney) will graduate this spring from High Point Central High School in High Point, where she is president of the Rotary Interact Club, helping lead large events such as the Ending Hunger Games festival. She is also captain of the Mock Debate and Quiz Bowl teams and takes part in competitive saddlebred horse showing, placing second at the National Championships in 2015. Laney is interested in studying business and mathematics. She is the daughter of Grace and Arthur Henley III of High Point.

Pearce Armstrong Landry II will graduate this spring from Greensboro Day School in Greensboro, where he is the two-year captain of the nationally ranked boys varsity basketball team. Pearce also started the Service Through Sports club to give athletes a meaningful way to serve their community, founded Hoops for the Hungry and serves on Student Council. He is interested in studying finance and chemistry and is thinking about careers in business and finance. Pearce is the son of Pearce and Anne Landry of Greensboro.

Ashley Chandler Simpson (Chandler) will graduate this spring from Walter Hines Page High School in Greensboro, where she is an active volunteer with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and has helped raise more than $100,000. She is also co-chair of the Youth Leadership of Greensboro, a program designed to teach students about Greensboros communities and issues, and serves as co-president of the Page High School Principals Council. Chandler is interested in studying journalism and art history and may pursue a career as a journalist. She is the daughter of Ashley and Evander Simpson IV of Greensboro.

HarnettMadison Grace Tart will graduate this spring from Triton High School in Erwin, where she volunteers and writes for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline blog. She is also student leader of the Triton High School Choral Ensemble, co-founder of the Creative Writing Club and co-founder of Project Unifya program designed to teach youth about current social issues. Madison is interested in studying psychology and chemistry. She is the daughter of Allen and Rani Tart of Erwin.

HaywoodLevi Thomas McCracken will graduate this spring from Haywood Early College High School in Clyde, where he is the Haywood Community College Student Government president, coordinating service projects, school events, and serving on the colleges board of trustees. He also is president of his schools peer mentor program, worked as a page in the North Carolina House of Representatives and volunteers at the Canton Central United Methodist Church. Levi is interested in studying political science and economics. He is the son of Mark and Crystal McCracken of Clyde.

IredellMarcella Francesca Pansini will graduate this spring from South Iredell High School in Statesville, where she is the president of Aprendemos Como Uno. ACU is a program that works with the Exceptional Childrens program to implement a Spanish curriculum and tutoring system. She also directed her schools production of the play Terra Nova and coaches for Kidzz Du Tri, an organization that teaches children how to improve their biking, swimming and running skills. Marcella is interested in studying international business and Spanish. She is the daughter of Abigayl and Michael Pansini Jr. of Mooresville.

LenoirAngel Rodolfo Gaona (Angel) will graduate this spring from North Lenoir High School in La Grange, where he is president of his schools chapter of the National Honor Society. He also volunteers at the Neuseway Nature Park Planetarium and the Down East ALS Walk, and is captain of the boys varsity soccer team. Angel also loves working under the hood of a car; he removed and replaced his first engine when he was only 15 years old. He is interested in studying mathematics, chemistry, and biology, and is thinking about a career as a surgeon. Angel is the son of Gregorio and Paula Gaona of La Grange.

MecklenburgLeslie Ruby Acosta Padilla will graduate this spring from Harding University High School in Charlotte, where she volunteers at Carolinas Medical Center, mentors middle school students who are making the leap to high school and leads the tutoring program Somos Unidos. Leslie is also the vice president of the Cultural and Leadership Club and captain of the girls varsity soccer team. She is interested in studying biology and public health and wants to explore a career in medicine. Leslie is the daughter Tesla Acosta of Charlotte.

Patrick Anderson Bradey will graduate this spring from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, where he is president of the Student Government Association, president of the Teen Democrats club and co-captain of the Academic World Quest team. He also serves on Myers Parks first Honor Council and is a Mustang Ambassador, leading tours for new students. Patrick is interested in studying foreign language and history and is considering a career in politics. He is the son of Christopher and Tracy Bradey of Charlotte.

Dennis Montgomery Cmiel (Denny) will graduate this spring from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, where he is an active member of the Christ Church Youth Group and a member of the churchs Youth Council. He has helped plan weekly meetings, dances, fundraisers and trips to Europe. Denny also loves basketball; he serves as captain of the boys varsity basketball team and coaches a girls recreational basketball team. Denny is interested in learning about business and theology and is thinking about a career in business management, ministry or coaching. He is the son of Craig and Joyce Cmiel of Charlotte.

Sara Rose Holley will graduate this spring from East Mecklenburg High School in Charlotte, where she created TEDxEastMecklenburgHighSchool. The event showcases student ideas and requires Sara to manage the speaker application process, coordinate the organizing team and raise money to pay for it. She also founded the Speech and Debate Club at her school, leads tours as an East Mecklenburg High School Ambassador and is ranked in the National Blackbelt League (Taekwondo). Sara is interested in studying social psychology, writing, and entrepreneurship. She is the daughter of John and Young Holley of Charlotte.

Sarah Dudley Sasz (Sally) will graduate this spring from Charlotte Country Day School in Charlotte, where she is president of her schools chapter of the National Art Honor Society, working on projects such as bringing art and creativity to children in area hospitals and schools. She is also art editor of her schools art and literary magazine OPUS, mentors a student through Big Brothers Big Sisters and plays girls varsity tennis and basketball. Sally is interested in learning more about literature and writing. She is the daughter of Steven and Nancy Sasz of Charlotte.

New HanoverCamryn Gerard Kellogg will graduate this spring from Cape Fear Academy in Wilmington, where he has performed in more than a dozen theater productions since middle school. He has performed at the North Carolina Theater Conference three times. He is also an accomplished musician, playing the alto saxophone and performing at events nationwide. Camryn also found the A-Team, an asthma awareness club. He is interested in studying biology and math and may pursue a career in medicine or music. He is the son of Robert and Laura Kellogg of Wilmington.

Mina Yakubu will graduate this spring from New Hanover High School in Wilmington, where she created the International Club to create opportunities for students to learn about their classmates and cultures. She also serves as senior class president, takes part in the judicial process as a member of New Hanover Teen Court, and is captain of the color guard and girls varsity lacrosse. Mina is interested in studying African, African American, and Diaspora studies and political science. She is the daughter of Awudu Yakubu and Grace Abrokwah of Wilmington.

OnslowAlexandria Leigh Chadwick will graduate this spring from Swansboro High School in Swansboro, where she is president of the Swansboro Area Youth Development Foundation. She has helped lead efforts that raised thousands of dollars for local schools, animal shelters and parks. Alexandria also serves as senior class president, is secretary of the group Student to Student and is captain of the girls varsity golf team. She is interested in studying mathematics and English. Alexandria is the daughter of John and Donna Chadwick of Swansboro.

OrangeLucas Cole Risinger will graduate this spring from East Chapel Hill High School in Chapel Hill, where he is an active volunteer with El Centro Hispano, tutoring and helping run summer camps. He also serves on the Superintendents Student Advisory Council, is co-president of his schools Model U.N. club and plays on a nationally ranked Ultimate Frisbee team. Lucas is interested in studying applied mathematics and economics. He is the son of Bradley Risinger and Carolyn Landever of Chapel Hill.

PittOlivia Leigh Hoynes will graduate this spring from Junius H. Rose High School in Greenville, where she is a member of student government, serving as co-chair of the Exceptional Childrens Activities Cabinet. She also volunteers at the Pitt County Animal Shelter and founded the Pitt Animal Welfare Society (PAWS); the club has raised more than $1,600 and 1,130 pounds of pet food for animals in need. Olivia is interested in studying biology and religious studies and wants to explore careers in medicine or research. She is the daughter of Matthew Hoynes and Wendy Creasey of Greenville.

Jordyn Marie Williams will graduate this spring from Junius H. Rose High School in Greenville, where she helped restart the History Day program at her school. In addition to helping many students with their projects, she herself won the grand prize at the national level of History Day. Jordyn is also an active member of the volunteer social group Life Teen, a senior editor for the opinion section of the school paper Rampant Lines and a member of the varsity track and cross country teams. Jordyn is interested in studying biology and psychology. She is the daughter of Marvin and Kimberly Williams of Winterville.

RobesonTaner Kylan Jacobs will graduate this spring from Lumberton Senior High School in Lumberton, where he co-founded Treasured Gems, a club dedicated to involving disabled students in school events and activities. He is also an active member of the Native American Student Association and has represented his chapter at conferences and programs, serves as senior class president, and he is an enthusiastic member of the school spirit team the Maroon Typhoon. Taner is interested in studying biology and business. He is the son of Aubrey and Anita Jacobs of Lumberton.

Stanly*Taya Sherie Joseph will graduate this spring from Albemarle Senior High School in Albemarle, where she organized a successful fundraiser for Sickle Cell Disease Research; she found sponsors, managed the sign-up process and hosted the event. Taya also interned at Albemarle Pediatrics to work closely with doctors and nurses, serves as president of her schools chapter of the National Honor Society and has twice been named captain of the girls varsity basketball team. She is interested in studying biology and Spanish and is considering a career in medicine. Taya is the daughter of Kenry Joseph of New York, New York, and Jay and Christie Biles of Albemarle.

SurryAnna Andreevna Ilyasova will graduate this spring from Mount Airy High School in Mount Airy, where she is part of the Middle School Mentorship Program, tutoring and supporting younger students. She is also president of her schools Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter, president of the Interact Club and an accomplished piano player. Anna is interested in learning about biology and international relations and is considering a career in medicine. She is the daughter of Andrey and Irina Ilyasova of Mount Airy.

UnionKayley Elizabeth Carpenter will graduate this spring from Piedmont High School in Monroe, where she is pit captain of her schools award winning marching band, has performed in more than a dozen plays and musicals and is an active member of the Girl Scouts. She also co-founded Project Unify, a club at her school that works with developmentally disabled teens and adults in her community. Kayley has many interests and is looking forward to studying everything from theater to biology. She is the daughter of Mark and Karen Carpenter of Indian Trail.

WakeLucas Saunders Buxton (Luke) will graduate this spring from Enloe Magnet High School in Raleigh, where he is president of Student Athletic Activities, organizing events that energize students in support of his schools sports teams. He also started the Cinematography Club, produces segments for his schools student-run video network, The Loedown, and serves as captain of the boys varsity soccer team. Luke is interested in learning more about television production, sports journalism and communications. He is the son of J.B. and Hunter Buxton of Raleigh.

Mackenzie Elizabeth Dion will graduate this spring from Needham B. Broughton High School in Raleigh, where she is founder and president of the Broughton Food Ark, a nonprofit that fights food insecurity through volunteering and community engagement. She also founded the Walk for Water, leads the CAM Raleigh Young Artists Advisory Board, and volunteers at the Camden Street Learning Garden. Mackenzie is interested in studying public policy and environmental studies. She is the daughter of John and Lisa Dion of Raleigh.

Jacquelyn Claire Hedrick will graduate this spring from Jesse O. Sanderson High School in Raleigh, where she is president of the PALS Club. The club is built to foster relationships between students with and without disabilities; Jacquelyn spearheads fundraising efforts, organizes field trips and more. She also works on social justice issues at Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!), leads a Project UNIFY team, and organizes an annual Halloween party for Wake County high school students with moderate to severe disabilities. Jacquelyn is interested in studying special education and occupational therapy. She is the daughter of John and Tammy Hedrick of Raleigh.

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The Morehead-Cain Foundation announces its Class of 2021 - UNC News

The Food and Drug Administration ordered 14 companies to stop making bogus claims about cancer cures includingasparagus extract, exotic teas and topical creams for pets or face possible product seizures and criminal prosecution.

The letterscovered more than five-dozen unapproved products that the companies touted as preventing, treating or curing cancer, a violation of federal law, the agency said. The items includedpills, ointments, oils, drops, teas and diagnostic devices.

Consumers should not use these or similar unproven products because they may be unsafe and could prevent a person from seeking an appropriate and potentially lifesaving cancer diagnosis or treatment, said Douglas Stearn, director of the FDA's Office of Enforcement and Import Operations.

One of the companies, Sunstone, based in Pleasant Grove, Utah, sells a product called Essiac Tea. Its website said that cancer and AIDS sufferers or other ill people may wish to take 2 fluid ounces of the tea twice daily on an empty stomach, the FDA warning letter said. Eight ounces of the tea costs $11, according to the firm's website.

Another Sunstone product, Virxcan-X Salve, is marketed for liver congestion, arthritis, malignant growths, respiratory and urinary tract infection, according to the FDA. The price is $34 for one ounce.Asked to respond to the warning letter, a man at the company who identified himself as Eric declined to comment.

[FDA warns parents not to give children cough syrup containing codeine]

In a letter to Nature's Treasures, based in Glendale, Calif., the FDA noted that the company website made this claim about its topical cream KR22 Oxicell: If you (or your pet) are suffering from liver problems, cancer, arthritis, kidney disease or other inflammatory conditions, this product can really help. The agency said the product wasn't approved for either humans or animals.

Elsewhere on the company's website, the FDA noted, the firm is promoting thermography, which uses digital infrared thermal imaging, as an unapproved device to detect breast cancer. The company says, for example, that thermography is far more sensitive than mammography.

Company official Raya Shanazarian declined to comment.

BioStar Technology International in Los Angeles was cited by the FDA for saying that its Asparagus Extract should be taken by everyone for heart, cancer prevention. The company also claimed that its Revivin herbal blend attacks cancer at the DNA level. This results in a more comprehensive cancer inhibition therapy.

Ulysses Angulo, the owner of BioStar, said, The only thing we can do is comply and remove the verbiage. It removes information for the public to make informed decisions about products that could help them.

The agency gave the companies 15 days to correct the violations or provide a plan on how they will correct them. Since the violations pertain to marketing claims, the most likely fixes are removal of the offending language. If the firms do not respond to the agency, they face further action, including court injunctions on the sale of their products.

The agency said it has issued more than 90 warning letters in 10 years to companies marketing hundreds of fraudulent products making cancer claims on websites, on social media and in stores.But it acknowledged that while the warnings sometimes stopped the sales, the companies sometimes just moved the products to new websites.

In one disturbing trend, the agency is seeing a rise in phony cancer treatments for pets. Increasingly, bogus remedies claiming to cure cancer in cats and dogs are showing up online, said Nicole Kornspan, a consumer safety officer at the agency.

Read more:

Are right-to-try laws a last hope for dying patients or a false promise?

Three women blinded by unapproved stem-cell treatment at South Florida clinic

FDA bans common ingredients in antibacterial soaps and washes

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FDA cracks down on companies pushing fraudulent cancer claims - Washington Post