Upstate Cancer Center

Four cancer diagnoses. Twenty-five years. One powerful message: your life is not over.

Routine screenings and regular checkups led to the early detection of melanoma, follicular lymphoma, breast cancer, and colon cancer for Kim Kopec. Along the way, she faced surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and the emotional challenges that come with cancer, but she never faced them alone.

Read Kim’s inspiring story and hear her advice for others navigating a cancer diagnosis: https://www.upstate.edu/whatsup/2026/012726-advice-from-a-4-time-cancer-survivor.php

Looking for a creative and supportive space to reflect, write, and heal? Join our Poetry for Healing Writing Group, led by Chaplain Kate Dunn and medical student Sophia Xian. Whether you're an experienced writer or just beginning, all are welcome!

Expressive writing can become a meaningful part of your healing journey.

To register and receive the WebEx link, email Chaplain Kate Dunn at [email protected] or call the Spiritual Care Office at (315) 464-4687.

Get the edge on cancer treatment...bringing next-level precision to Upstate Cancer Center.

We're thrilled to announce that the Varian Edge™ radiosurgery system is now fully operational at our Hill Radiation Oncology location! Since its launch in December 2025, this cutting-edge technology has been providing “knifelike” precision for patients with complex tumors.

What makes the Edge a game-changer?
✅ Sub-millimeter Accuracy: Targets tumors in the lung, prostate, pancreas, liver, brain, and spine with unmatched precision.

✅ HyperSight™ Imaging: Captures high-quality scans in just 6 seconds—sharpening accuracy while significantly reducing patient time on the treatment table.

✅ Faster, More Effective Care: Advanced automation means shorter sessions, allowing you to get back to your day sooner.

At Hill Radiation Oncology, we are committed to pairing world-class technology with the compassionate, patient-centered care you deserve.

To learn more, please visit https://www.upstate.edu/cancer/cancer-care/treatment-options/radonc-patientcare/treatment-options/external/varian-edge.php or call us at ☎️ (315) 464-1755.

We're thrilled to welcome six new physicians to our Hematology/Oncology team. Our goal is to bring highly specialized, disease-specific care closer to home for our patients.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Kupakuwana Suk, Dr. Dhulipalla, Dr. Batayneh, Dr. Kyi, Dr. Shahnawaz, and Dr. Siegenthaler to the Upstate Cancer Center family!

Read more about their specialties:

Upstate Cancer Center adds six physicians to expand specialized cancer care | Upstate News | SUNY Upstate New hematology and oncology specialists will strengthen disease-specific expertise and increase access to cancer and blood disorder treatment across Central New York.

Cancer Center Chaplain's Corner: I’m always blessed to spend time with people who come in for treatment. Over the past couple of weeks, people have shared stories about themselves… their illnesses, how it has impacted them, and how they have moved through difficult times. One of the things that struck me significantly is recognizing that many are caregivers to others at the same time they are in treatment and living with cancer.

For many, with all that is happening, it can be a struggle to care for others in ways they’ve been accustomed to or would like to. Some have also said they aren’t the same person they used to be, and for them, it hurts.

It can be hard for us to acknowledge our limitations and accept this kind of change, extremely hard.

But what also struck me is how people have adapted and moved toward acceptance. Someone I spoke with told me that for him, it’s about reminding himself that he will do what he can, when he can. And when he can’t, he will take the time for himself that he needs – to rest, to nap, to read, or simply to sit on the porch in quiet solitude with a cup of coffee. And to remind himself that he is still the doer that he always was and always will be - just a bit differently.

Another person spoke of caring for her partner, and at times, it can be challenging, physically and emotionally. She is learning to remind herself that, regardless, she is still “doing” and that she is still a caregiver. She, too, reflected on taking the time she needs and that it’s important for her to be gentle with herself. Key for her is to bear in mind that what she does, she does with love – just like always.

Both individuals spoke of another very helpful thing: having someone to talk to. Whether it be a friend or confidant, a family member, clergy, a counselor, or a chaplain here at the Cancer Center. They said sharing one’s thoughts and feelings is important and helps them see and think about things differently, more clearly.

Please know that Chaplain Kate and I are here for you should you want to talk about what you are experiencing and the changes that you are facing in your lives, however they may be affecting you. Your nurse or provider can reach out to Spiritual Care, or you can call us at (315) 464-4687. We look forward to sharing time together.

Peace and blessings be with you,
Chaplain Tom

This World Kidney Cancer Day, we join the IKCC (International Kidney Cancer Coalition) to highlight the importance of mental and emotional health for those living with kidney cancer. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and uncertainty are common, and no one should have to face them alone.

Taking time to check in with yourself is an important part of your care. Whether it's talking with loved ones, connecting with a support group, or reaching out to your healthcare team, support is available.

How are you feeling today? Take a moment for an emotional well-being check-in. Learn more here: https://www.worldkidneycancerday.org/

📣 Please note: The June 24 meeting of our Living With Incurable Cancer Support Group has been cancelled.

We apologize for any inconvenience and will share information about future meetings as it becomes available.

Congratulations to Ashley Clark, Infusion RN, on her recent Daisy Award nomination. This nomination is a testament to Ashley's dedication to her patients' care and emotional well-being. Ashley's nomination included the following excerpt:

"She went above and beyond in explaining various processes and answering any and all of my questions. I never once felt anything less than genuinely cared for and in the best of hands. I know firsthand that she is not just an extraordinary nurse but an extraordinary person, and anyone would be lucky to be cared for by her."

We could not agree more with these beautiful words - Congratulations, Ashley!

Did you know groundbreaking cancer research is happening right here in Central New York?

Today, we hosted the 4th Annual Research Retreat at the CNY Biotech Accelerator, bringing together oncology experts to showcase the innovative work taking place across our institution.

The retreat highlighted how discoveries made at Upstate are helping to shape the future of cancer care. The day also featured inspiring keynote presentations and honored individuals whose dedication has helped drive the growth and success of the Upstate Cancer Center.

📸 Take a look at some highlights from today's retreat and see the people behind the science making a difference every day.