$150,000 Raised to Support Cancer Patients in Central Pa. Through Fund for Clinical Excellence

UPMC Pinnacle Foundation with the support of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., raised $150,000 at the recently held Women's Cancer Symposiumin Harrisburg. The funds will be added to the Rocco & Nancy Ortenzio Fund for Clinical Excellence that provides funding for advanced cancer research and for patients in need at UPMC Central PA Hillman Cancer Centers.

"The Fund for Clinical Excellence plays a vital role in helping us deliver the highest level of care to our patients," said Kit Lu, M.D., co-director of the Clinical Trials Program and Breast Medical Oncology Program. "Cancer care is always advancing, and research allows us to stay at the forefront of treatment innovations."

The symposium brought together leading experts and healthcare professionals from across central Pennsylvania to explore the latest innovations in oncology care. With the theme "Advancing Cancer Care While Putting Patients First," the event featured dynamic presentations on emerging topics such as mobile gynecology units, cardio-oncology, bispecific antibodies and the intersection of cancer and fertility.

The breakout sessions offered specialized tracks in breast and gynecologic malignancies, as well as nursing and supportive care, highlighting multidisciplinary collaboration and innovation. The afternoon keynote speakers addressed cutting-edge developments in ctDNA monitoring, cancer vaccines, and legislative updates, while also spotlighting community-driven initiatives like the Farm-to-Hospital program.

The symposium underscored UPMC's commitment to patient-centered care and its leadership in shaping the future of women's cancer treatment.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is one of just 56 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the country, which provides cutting-edge treatment and access to hundreds of clinical trials. For more information or to schedule an appointment at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., visit?UPMCHillman.com/CentralPA