When Charles Smith was diagnosed with lung cancer, his choices for treatment were limited due to other illnesses. “My doctor told me the news and I thought this is it – surgery is not for me,” said Smith. To an extent Smith was right. Surgery was not the course of treatment for him. However, there was an alternative treatment available.
Mr. Smith was a perfect candidate for Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), a technique designed to deliver radiation therapy very precisely to tumors anywhere in the body. After discussing Smith’s case with his referring physician, Mr. Smith and his family, it was agreed that SBRT would be the best course of action.
“Oncology patients are really fighting the biggest battle of their lives, and we are helping to cure them with minimal side effects,” said Dr. Chad Levitt, Radiation Oncologist and Medical Director of Radiotherapy Centers of Georgia in Cumming. Levitt has treated over 50 patients using the SBRT technique for the past three years. Smith’s treatment was precise and lasted only five days, compared to the three month timeline that a radiation therapy treatment would require.
“I was amazed by how well I felt—it was easy and convenient and I really didn’t feel uncomfortable at any time,” explained Smith. “Dr. Levitt explained everything to me in a way I could understand it. He took away the fears and anxiety I had.”
Charles Smith’s life is less than ordinary. “They saved my life,” Smith added. And he should know – the 76 year-old grandfather of six has lived a long and interesting life. Smith was raised in a carnival and lived the hobo life for 21 years.
As part of one of the most respected cancer treatment organizations RC Cancer Centers, Radiotherapy Centers of Georgia in Cumming offers radiation therapy using state-of-the-art technology by experienced board certified physicians with a focus on continuous quality improvement, delivered by caring and qualified professionals. Working with your medical care providers to treat – and cure – cancer is paramount to anyone dealing with its effects. Types of cancers treated at the center include prostate, brain, breast, cervical, endometrial, head and neck, lung, lymphatic, rectal and skin.
The center conducts regular free-of-charge PSA Screenings for men over 45 or with a family history of prostate cancer. “Prostate cancer can be detected early with a simple blood test, a Prostate Specific Antigen or PSA test,” Levitt explained. ProstRcision®, the method pioneered by RC Cancer Centers, integrates radioactive iodine (I-125) prostate seed implant followed by linear accelerator irradiation, using either the conformal beam or intensity modulated radiotherapy technique. The 10-year documented cure rate for ProstRcision® is 88% for early and intermediate cancer – higher than any other prostate treatment option available today.
A routine visit to the center is more than just a treatment day – it’s a visit with an extended family that cares for and works with each individual to make certain his/her needs are met, accurately and compassionately. “We take into account any special needs the patient or family members may have such as dietary needs or offering support for the caregivers. We even assist scheduling needs for appointments because so many of our patients have multiple appointments with other doctors due to their diagnosis of cancer,” explains Keith Marlowe, facility director.
“Recognizing that treating cancer is a part of the healing process, and in response to patients’ requests, we also offer integrated evidenced-based wellness programs to ensure that our patients’ experience is the best it can be under the circumstances,” Levitt explained. The program includes Mind-Body seminars and massage therapy, education, nutritional services and E-forums.
These evidence-based services as part of our specialized Wellness Program, specifically designed to help cancer patients, their families and caregivers, deal with the effects of cancer. “Our Wellness Program encompasses a variety of non-traditional therapies that, while not a substitute for proven cancer treatments, can improve the quality of life for cancer patients. Our goal is to offer you convenient, confidential and thoughtfully selected therapy programs that can help you live,” Levitt added. “We understand our patient’s need for attention, information, support and quality of life. Bottom line – we care about our patients’ future.”
“Awareness of life is what brings cancer patients together. Even the young ones are aware of their environment, their families, and their bodies much more than a person without cancer,” Levitt commented. “How many times have you driven for 20 miles and cannot remember those 15 minutes? Cancer patients are more in-tune with their surroundings and their current experience.”
Being diagnosed with cancer has overwhelming and destructive effects. Knowing that you can count on a competent, knowledgeable and compassionate group of experts to provide you and your family with exceptional care, can bring hope to those who need it most. For more information about RC Cancer Centers in Cumming visit http://rccancercenters.com/locations/georgia/cumming or call 678-947-0457.
©2010 Physician Oncology Services. All Rights Reserved.
Also known as Radiotherapy Centers of Georgia (RCOG).