News & Blog

Dedicated and Determined

Sevier County Woman Battles Breast Cancer While Recovering from Bilateral Arm and Shoulder Break Jeanne Bishop, a retired nurse living in Sevier County, came into LeConte Medical Center for a routine mammogram last November. When the results came back abnormal, she followed up with an ultrasound and biopsy. She underwent a lumpectomy, or removal of […]

7 Myths about Clinical Trials Dispelled

This content was written by Jessica Severt RN, BSN, Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator at Thompson Cancer Survival Center.  Clinical trials are how we discover new and superior treatments, better ways to prevent side effects, and improve survival rates for cancer patients. According to research, only approximately 3-5% of adult cancer patients participate in a clinical […]

Cancer and Mental Health

This content was written by Jessica Antal, MSSW, LCSW, of Thompson Cancer Survival Center.  May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Many people don’t realize the impact that a disease like cancer has on mental health. That’s why it is critically important that cancer patients discuss their mental and emotional health with their family members and […]

Navigating Food and Medication Interactions

This content was written by Chelsea Johnson, MS, RD, LDN, one of  Thompson Cancer Survival Center’s Clinical Dietitians. In the oncology setting, it is common for patients to begin new medications. Chemotherapy drugs treat cancer, and your provider may prescribe medications to prevent or manage side effects of treatment. I hear many patients say they […]

Nutrition Tips for Chemotherapy Patients

This content was written by Amanda Mondini, RD, LD, one of Thompson Cancer Survival Center’s Clinical Dietitians.  Overview of Chemotherapy Side Effects If your doctor has recommended chemotherapy as a treatment for cancer, you are likely processing a whole host of emotions: uncertainty, fear, and stress may be among them. While all of these feelings […]

Do Not Delay Annual Screening Mammograms

Simply put, routine cancer screenings check your body for signs of cancer before you may have any physical symptoms. Routine screening mammograms are extremely effective at diagnosing breast cancer sooner. National trends indicate an alarming decrease in annual screening mammograms lately. Experts believe it is because many women are reluctant to visit the doctor due […]

Nutrition Tips for Radiation Therapy Patients

This content was written by Chelsea Johnson, MS, RD, LDN, one of Thompson Cancer Survival Center’s Clinical Dietitians.  Managing Nutrition During Cancer Treatment Before, during, and after treatment, nutrition can be challenging for patients and caregivers. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. While treating cancer cells, surrounding healthy cells can be damaged. […]

Oncology Rehabilitation Services

Research shows that physical therapy during and after cancer treatment can speed up functional recovery, reduce pain and fatigue, and decrease the risk for other complications. And, it also helps patients and caregivers regain a sense of hope and independence. At Thompson Cancer Survival Center, we partner with Covenant Health Therapy Centers to provide convenient […]