Conference Agenda
*Nursing Contact Hours Available
**Social Work Contact Hours Available
VCC Member
For more information about each session, click on session titles.
1:15-2:00 PM — SESSION FOUR
- 4-1. New Treatments for Breast Cancer – Targeted Therapy *
This session will share news about new treatments targeted against breast cancers, including agents that block proteins that cause cancer to grow and spread, drugs that prevent cancer cells from growing blood vessels, and other new strategies. The role of clinical trials and the potential role of these new drugs as additions to current treatments will also be discussed.Hyman Muss, MD
Dr. Muss practices medical oncology at Fletcher Allen Health Care where he is also active in research. He is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Vermont College of Medicine. Dr. Muss also participates on several national boards for the Cancer and Leukemia Group B and the American Board of Internal Medicine. - 4-2. Breast Cancer Screening and Prevention *
There are differences between screenings for a low risk person and a high risk person. These modalities will be discussed along with the options and efficacy of breast cancer prevention.Marie Wood, MD
Dr. Wood is a member of the Vermont Cancer Center and a Professor of Medicine at the UVM College of Medicine. She is a Medical Oncologist in the Fletcher Allen Health Care Hematology/Oncology clinic and Director of the Familial Cancer Program at the University of Vermont. - 4-3. Take Time to Laugh: It's the Music of the Soul with Medical Benefits **
In this interactive session we will look at the importance of choosing happiness and experiencing joy in our daily lives. We will also discover the benefits of humor in the healing process.Sister Pat McKittrick, RN
Sister Pat McKittrick is a registered nurse currently employed at Fletcher Allen Health Care. She coordinates the Health Ministries program. Sister recognizes the importance of healing body, mind and spirit. - 4-4. The Physician/Patient Relationship and Communication **
A breast cancer patient, her husband and her doctor talk about how to keep the doctor/patient relationship "healthy". Throughout treatment this is a vital relationship, trouble here can make treatments even more difficult. General communication, asking questions, and the husband's role in support will be discussed.Karen and Dave Crawford, and Paul Unger, MD
Dr. Unger is a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Vermont College of Medicine, a hematologist and medical oncologist on Fletcher Allen's medical staff and a member of the Vermont Cancer Center. He cares for patients at the Vermont Center for Cancer Medicine.
Karen and Dave Crawford have been married for 16 years and have two children. Karen was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer in the spring of 2004. Dave is a construction project manager at IBM. Both are members of Christ Memorial Church where Dave serves as an elder and coordinates the men's group. - 4-5. Breast Cancer in Vermont – The State Cancer Plan
Learn about breast cancer from a public health perspective. Vermont Department of Health staff introduce you to the data and disparities of breast cancer in Vermont and the statewide priorities and partnerships to address it.John Olson, MEd
John Olson coordinates Vermonters Taking Action Against Cancer (VTAAC), a statewide partnership of 140+ individuals, organizations and professionals that created Vermont's second strategic plan for cancer prevention and control. Previously, he was the Director of Education at Vermont CARES in Burlington where he developed and managed HIV/AIDS prevention programs in northwestern & central Vermont. John received his Master of Education degree from the University of Vermont. - 4-6. Surgical Management of Breast Cancer *
This session will discuss the current options for surgical treatment of the breast in breast cancer: lumpectomy, mastectomy and Sentinel Node biopsy and/or Axillary Node dissection.Mary Stanley, MD
Mary Stanley has been a breast surgeon in the community since 1998. She specializes in both benign and malignant breast problems. She is the chairperson of the Breast Care Center Steering Committee. Dr. Stanley practices in Williston in a center dedicated to women's health care. - 4-7. The American Cancer Society and You
The American Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service. In this session, you will learn about a variety of services available to cancer patients and their families through the American Cancer Society. You will learn how to access and connect with the Cancer Resource Network, which offers information, day-to-day help, and emotional support to cancer patients.Leigh Sampson
Leigh Sampson has been part of the Health Initiatives staff at the American Cancer Society for nearly five years, focusing on providing support services to cancer patients. She is a graduate of the College of William and Mary in Virginia and completed a Master's degree in Journalism and Public Affairs from American University in Washington DC. She has a graduate certificate in Public Health from George Washington University. - 4-8. Finding Balance in a Life Touched by Cancer
Cancer is often disorienting and the words 'cancer patient' can seem to become your identity. Life is not just about a diagnoses or medical treatment. Come share and gain some practical ideas and practices for bringing balance to your life.Ellen Fein, LCSW, RYT
Ellen Fein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a certified yoga teacher. She teaches yoga to those with serious illness and also runs workshops and groups about healing and mind-body techniques such as imagery and meditation. - 4-9. Problem Solving for Treatment of Breast and Trunk Wall Lymphedema (geared to PTs)
Truncal edema can be difficult to treat and objectively evaluate. This problem-solving session is geared for therapists with experience treating persons with truncal edema.Elaine Belanger PT, CLT, Julie Adams, PT, DPT, CLT-LANA
Ms. Belanger received her lymphedema training through Klose-Norton Consultants in 2003. She has specialized in lymphedema treatment for the past 3 years. She is employed by Fletcher Allen Health Care, Rehab Outpatient Center, treating both in and outpatient cases.
Julie Adams has been with Fletcher Allen since 2003. She is currently the Therapy Supervisor of the Rehabilitation Outpatient Center, which is the site of the outpatient lymphedema therapy program. Julie received her physical therapy degree from the University of Vermont in 1991 and a doctorate in physical therapy from Simmons College in 2006. She works primarily with patients with complex medical conditions, and is very involved with program development for cancer patients. - 4-10. Explore and Experience Meditation
A brief introduction to imaged and imageless meditation as prayer. Flowing from the Jewish/Christian faith vision of life and it's meaning. Open to all who are seeking.Rev. Mr. Regis Cummings and Betty Blouin, RN
Rev. Cummings is a Permanent Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church, assigned to Saint Augustine Church in Montpelier. He is co-founder of several groups including the Central Vermont Cancer Support Group (1984) and the Christian Mediation Center in Montpelier (1989). He is also a member of the Central Vermont Hospital Ethics Committee and Clergy Advisory board.
Ms. Blouin currently works as a nurse for Project Independence. Ms. Blouin is co-founder of The Central Vermont Cancer Support Group, The Christian Mediation Center and The Foundation for Compassionate Care. - 4-11. Return to Exercise During and After Cancer Treatment
Join a exercise session in the gym, led by a physical therapist. We will begin exercise using the concept of progressive resistive exercise - Weight Training! Wear comfortable clothing for the class. All levels are welcome. Goals include how to safely stretch for flexibility, guidance on how and where to start using weights and/or machines, and cardiovascular conditioning.Kristi Johnson, PT, CLT-LANA
Kristi practices physical therapy at Timberlane Physical Therapy, and has been a certified lymphedema therapist since 1999. Kristi specializes in lymphedema treatment and post mastectomy/lumpectomy surgery. Her experience as an orthopedic physical therapist and an avid sport enthusiast has complemented her focus for individuals who are interested in exercise and sports. - 4-12. Fly Casting Workshop – Casting for Recovery
Orvis has a long history of providing fly casting as a technique to help women with breast cancer. Their "Casting for Recovery" program as been seen on national TV programs and is a wonderful way to relax, enjoy nature and get your arms moving. These free demonstrations and guidance sessions will be held outside as weather allows.
Session One | Session Two | Session Three | Lunch Session | Session Four | Session Five | Session Six