Irina Dumitrescu received a diagnosis of cancer in both breasts, leading her to undergo a double mastectomy. She reported that the early detection of her cancer meant she did not require chemotherapy or radiation.
After her treatment, Dumitrescu continued her recovery with support from the Survivorship and Supportive Care Institute at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Frank Penedo, Ph.D., who directs the new institute, commented on the broader impact of cancer on patients’ lives. “Cancer doesn’t occur in a vacuum. Individuals come with their lives, their responsibilities, their families, prior challenges that may have been in place, which all get exacerbated when you’re faced with cancer,” Dr. Penedo said. “The Institute brings together experts in clinical care and research, all focused on improving the lives of our cancer survivors.”
The Survivorship and Supportive Care Institute provides various therapies tailored to individual needs. These include mental health support, art therapy, yoga, and music therapy. Dumitrescu is participating in music therapy and has started learning piano for the first time. “That’s really changed my life. It’s gotten rid of a tremor in my hand,” she said.
Dr. Penedo noted ongoing research efforts: “We’re also conducting research funded by the National Cancer Institute to better understand how music therapy can improve patient outcomes and particularly reduce symptom burden and improve quality of life.”
He added that evidence-based therapies are designed to address each patient’s specific needs: “We know that social support, coping, ability to manage stress, nutrition, and physical activity are all critically important to improve the life of our patients.”
Dumitrescu described how these services have supported her well-being: “They help you be positive. They help you control your mind to not think of the worst-case scenario all the time.” She concluded by noting her improved condition since using Sylvester’s support services: “I think I’m feeling close to 100%. It’s really, really making me stronger.”
