Top: Leaders of McLaren Central Michigan, Karmanos Cancer Institute, and New Hope Campaign.
Bottom: Staff of Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Central Michigan, Morey Cancer Center.
Central Michigan Celebrates 10 Years of Cancer Care Excellence
For the past 10 years, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Central Michigan, Morey Cancer Center, has been treating cancer patients in Mt. Pleasant. During that time, the center has evolved, but the core mission has stayed constant: to provide exceptional, evidence-based cancer care close to home.
"Since it opened, nearly 6,000 patients have received care at the Morey Cancer Center," says Nancy King, R.N., regional director of cancer services at Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Central Michigan, Morey Cancer Center. "We provide comprehensive care, including radiation and medical oncology services that are on par with any other facility."
Growing with Karmanos
In October 2013, the Morey Cancer Center, which is accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, partnered with Karmanos, raising the level of patient care even further.
"Our relationship with Karmanos enhances our commitment to clinical excellence by providing greater access to staff development, as well as enhanced research opportunities," says King.
About 25 percent of patients at the Morey Cancer Center are involved in a clinical trial, underscoring the center's commitment to bringing the most advanced treatment and therapies to patients.
Built by the Community, for the Community
The Morey Cancer Center was built a decade ago in part due to a successful community campaign, which raised $6 million to help fund the development. Many campaign donors, some of whom have since been treated at the center, came back to celebrate the anniversary this past September.
"This cancer center is truly community-built and the ongoing support is tremendous," says King. Many of the same physicians, oncology-certified nurses, and other employees who opened the cancer center 10 years ago are still providing quality care here today.
Some may ask why a small community like Mt. Pleasant needs such a big cancer center, says King. But cancer doesn't understand geography. The residents of Central Michigan benefit from having hometown access to state-of-the-art care.