“The theme, “Stars & Angels Among Us – Fight Like the Irish,” honors cancer patients, cancer survivors and those who care for them for their strength, courage and the way in which they touch the lives of others,” said co-chairs, Deb Smith and Denise Wilson. Nominees and recipients of the awards will be honored during the evening.

This is the 14th anniversary for the event, which has grown to be the cancer center’s signature fundraising event, raising nearly $196,000 last year. Guests at the Stars and Angels-Irish themed benefit will enjoy an Irish themed dinner and beer tasting, live Irish music, silent and live auctions, and the Star and Angel awards program. Auction items include jewelry from Gunderson’s, Apple products from Pyramid Technologies, movie passes for two for a year from Main Street Theatres – Promenade and a Shih Tzu puppy named Patrick – playful and affectionate temperament, non shedding.

This year’s event will help support new radiation technology. Radiation therapy is used to treat many kinds of cancer. Currently the Cancer Center has state-of-the-art equipment that represents the most aggressive, cancer-fighting weapons available in the area.

“As technology changes the cancer center will need to purchase new equipment in the near future to stay up to date with the latest in radiation cancer care,” said Pat Hubbard, director of fund development. “One hundred percent of the funds raised stay here and support our patients.”

The cancer center has grown to consist of a progressive chemotherapy program that includes national leaders in research and clinical trials; the full scope of radiation oncology; in-house laboratory services; and advanced imaging – including computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and X-ray. In addition, a wide range of ancillary services enhance patients’ treatment plans, and a dedicated team of professionals – including a dietitian, spiritual care coordinator and patient navigator – join physicians in tailoring care to each patient’s needs.

To purchase tickets to the Winter Benefit please call 712.252.9352, email hubbardp@jencc.com.

Phytochemicals is just a fancy name for plant chemicals. We all know we need to eat more fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains to help prevent cancer, but phytochemicals may help prevent tumors in three ways.

They have antioxidant properties. They help turn on carcinogen detoxifying enzymes. They help inhibit tumor cell proliferation. There are only 13 vitamins and 13 minerals but there are over 10,000 phytochemicals. Many have probably heard of the cancer fighting properties which are found in lycopene in tomato products or isoflavones found in soy products.

The first job of phytochemicals is to protect the plants against fungus and bacteria, insects, and predators. So all plants contain a number of phytochemical compounds in variable amounts. Phytochemicals can be broken down into four principal groups: polyphenols, terpenes, sulfur and saponins. Or easier to recognize: polyphenols are found in green tea, red wine, onions, and apples, while terpenes are found in citrus, sulfur is garlic and cabbage, and saponins are legumes.

Polyphenols is the largest class of phytochemicals found in nature and the common one Dr. Oz frequently talks about. We often hear that red grapes and green tea are great cancer fighters and it is partly because of the polyphenols. A single tomato or orange contains hundreds or possibly even thousands of phytochemicals. As with everything with a healthy diet, variety is good since we want to get a wide variety of these plant fighters.

Besides plants being fat free, low in calories, high in vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, they are all excellent sources of phytochemicals. So try some ellagic acids found in raspberries and indoles found in broccoli.

Take home message
- eat a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans
- favor brightly colored or strongly flavored fruits and vegetables
- stick to food sources, phytochemicals in supplement form may not be as easily absorbed

A Healthy You is a regular column about nutrition, healthy living and cancer care. It is written by Cindy Gates, RD and LD and the Cancer Center’s Oncology dietitian, herbalist and Certified Wellness Coach.

MyPlate and the Blue Zones are great partners. MyPlate replaced the food guide pyramid. MyPlate focuses on “fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables” and “enjoy your food but eat less”. Blue Zone encourages “Plant Slant” and “Stop eating when you’re 80 percent full”.

To help Americans put MyPlate into action, the Supertracker has been launched. The SuperTracker is a state-of-the-art interactive and personalized tool for diet and physical activity planning, assessment and analysis. The website contains a place to keep track of your food intake and physical activity. Studies show the more food records people kept, the more weight they lost.

Of course, it’s not just the act of keeping a log that helps you lose weight – it’s what the log reveals that really makes a difference. There is something truly stunning about seeing in black in white just how many calories you consumed over a single day. The website also contains many helpful hints on increasing fruits and vegetables, teaching kids to eat healthier, eating on a budget and recipes.

Use SuperTracker to:

• Easily identify personal recommendations for what and how much to eat and physical activity
• Find and track food and activities
• Assess personal physical activities
• Assess all food groups and nutritional information
• Using custom features to set goals, get weight management pointers
• Get reports on nutrient intake
• Tap into social media to motivate health behavior change.

Blue Zone Challenge: log on to www.chooseMyPlate.gov and go to popular topics and choose SuperTracker.

Healthy You is a regular column about nutrition, healthy living and cancer care. It is written by Cindy Gates, RD and LD and the Cancer Center’s Oncology dietitian, herbalist and Certified Wellness Coach.

“Deb and Denise bring with them many talents which include a passion for volunteering and raising money that helps cancer patients,” says Pat Hubbard, director of fund development. The Winter Benefit carries a theme of “Fight Like the Irish – Stars and Angels Among Us” and is the biggest annual fundraising event for the Cancer Center, raising nearly $196,000 last year.

“Serving as a co-chair provides the honor of working with a great group of dedicated volunteers and staff. Cancer touches everyone, and serving gives me an opportunity to give back to this community,” says Deb Smith. “I know that everyone on the committee has been touched by cancer in some way and we all simply want to give back.”

“I have volunteered on the committee for five years and serving as co-chair helps me to do more for the Cancer Center,” says Denise Wilson. “I feel I am playing a significant role in raising funds and one hundred percent of the money raised stays here in Siouxland.”

Funds raised from this year’s benefit will help purchase new radiation technology. Radiation therapy is changing rapidly. Many new therapies are available in the market that will allow the cancer center to acquire additional state-of-the-art equipment to continue to provide high quality cancer care close to home. New equipment will complement “Trilogy” which provides the most accurate and up to date radiation treatment in the area.

Corporate sponsors are being sought to help support the event. The Mark and Mary Ellen Nylen Foundation and Great Southern Bank are premier sponsors this year. For more information, contact Pat Hubbard, Director of Fund Development 712.252.9352 or email hubbardp@jencc.com.

The only way to know if your home has radon is to test for it.

• In the United States, radon is the first leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon causes approximately 21,000 deaths per year nationally, most of these are preventable.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has set a recommended radon action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends that all Iowa homes be tested for radon and homes over 4 pCi/L be fixed.
• Iowa has the highest percentage of homes above 4 pCi/L in the United States.
• Radon test kits are available from some retail stores and many local Health departments.

Test kits can be picked up at Siouxland District Health Department for $5 each. 1014 Nebraska St. Sioux City, IA 712-279-6119

How do you test for Radon?
The EPA Recommends the Following Testing Steps according to A Citizen’s Guide to Radon:

Step 1. Take a short-term test. If your result is 4 pCi/L or higher take a follow-up test (Step 2) to be sure.

Step 2. Follow up with either a long-term test or a second short-term test:

• For a better understanding of your year-round average radon level, take a long-term test.
• If you need results quickly, take a second short-term test.

The higher your initial short-term test result, the more certain you can be that you should take a short-term
rather than a long-term follow up test. If your first short-term test result is more than twice EPA’s 4 pCi/L
action level, you should take a second short-term test immediately.

Step 3. If you followed up with a long-term test: Fix your home if your long-term test result is 4 pCi/L or
more. If you followed up with a second short-term test: The higher your short-term results, the more certain
you can be that you should fix your home. Consider fixing your home if the average of your first and second
test is 4 pCi/L or higher.

Step 4. If the radon test result is lower than 4 pCi/L, continue to monitor by retesting every 2 years or if
building conditions change.

Note: A single short-term test should not be used as a basis to mitigate your home, radon levels may fluctuate over the short-term
time period you tested. Homes can be tested at anytime of the year, but radon levels fluctuate during the year. If a summer test
shows low levels, the house should be retested in cold weather as well.

How do you lower Radon Levels?

Most radon problems can be corrected with a mitigation system costing between $800 and $2,000 installed by a certified contractor. Occasionally lower radon levels can be fixed using less expensive techniques such as sealing sump pits and other openings in the foundation. Always follow up with a test kit to make sure radon levels have been reduced.
A typical radon mitigation system is a 3”- 4” PVC pipe extending from a hole in the basement floor through the roof. A permanent fan supplies suction through the pipe, drawing radon from beneath the slab and exhausting it outside above the eaves level of the house.

Iowa law requires professionals who install radon mitigation systems to be certified by the Iowa Department of Public Health. The list is available by calling the IDPH hotline 1-800-383-5992 or visiting the IDPH website at: http://www.idph.state.ia.us/eh/radon.asp

Knowledgeable homeowners may take corrective action to reduce radon levels in their own homes.

Other Radon resources:
Iowa Air Coalition

Iowa Department of Public Health

Environmental Protection Agency

Oral Head & Neck Cancer Screening

April 18, 6:15 – 8:15 pm

Held at the June E Nylen Cancer Center

To register call 279-3686 or visit www.stlukes.org

Skin Cancer Screening

May 10, 6:15 – 8:15 pm

Held at the June E Nylen Cancer Center

To register call 279-3686 or visit www.stlukes.org

This screening is for people who currently do not see a dermatologist.

Please fill out this simple form and we’ll send you your own DVD, for free.

We welcome the opportunity to answer any questions you may have.

Arugula is a great source of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals.

By Cindy Gates
The Blue Zone Project is about being happy and healthy. Trying new foods can make you happy and healthy since they will make you feel better and the new flavors you will experience will make you smile.
A New Year and a new time to try some new foods for 2012.
1. Kale and arugula are both great sources of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. Both can be eaten fresh in salads or steamed.
2. Chia Seeds may be better than flaxseeds. Like flaxseeds, they are high in omega 3 fatty acids and high in soluble fiber, which may help lower cholesterol. Chia seeds do no need to be ground for your body to be able to digest them and they do not need to be refrigerated. Chia seeds swell in water so they will help make you full. Chia seeds also are a good source of calcium.
3. Quinoa is an ancient grain which is rich in fiber and protein. It has a fluffy, creamy and slightly nutty flavor.
4. Greek Yogurt and regular yogurt are both good for digestion and help increase the immune system. Greek yogurt has more protein, and some brands are even twice as high in protein. Many say Greek yogurt tastes better since it has a thicker texture. Regular yogurt goes through two strainings where Greek undergoes three strainings to remove the water.
5. Dark Chocolate is always a health food. Choose 72 percent cocoa content or higher for the best anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and mood-enhancing effects.
6. Spices are a great way to cut back on salt and sugar. Cinnamon, ginger and turmeric are all great for digestion and the immune system.
7. Hummus is made from garbanzo beans (chickpeas) and is great for dips for veggies and whole grain crackers. Hummus is high in protein and fiber, and is a good source of healthy fats.
8. Pomegranate fruit is full of antioxidants, fiber and Vitamins A and C. Studies show that pomegranate may help lower risk of heart disease and cancer.
9. White Tea is from the same plant as green, black and oolong teas. Black tea is fermented. Oolong tea is partially fermented. Green tea is steamed or pan fried. White tea is the immature tea leaves that are picked before they are fully open and just minimally processed. White tea has a sweet, silky flavor and studies show it has more anti-oxidants than other teas.
10. Black Beans, like all beans, are high in fiber and protein but contain more antioxidants that other varieties.
11. Pumpkin is one of the vegetables that does not get utilized enough. Pumpkin is chock full of Vitamin A and fiber and is so versatile to use from appetizers, breads to desserts.
12. Blue Zone Challenge: Try one new food this week ( hint: try dark chocolate with sea salt ).

What new foods have you tried lately? I’d love to hear from you – leave a comment below.

Healthy You is a regular column about nutrition, healthy living and cancer care. It is written by Cindy Gates, RD and LD and the Cancer Center’s Oncology dietitian, herbalist and Certified Wellness Coach.

The June E. Nylen Cancer Center is seeking nominations for Stars and Angels extraordinary persons with cancer and those who care for them that make a difference in the lives of persons with cancer.

Recipients of the awards will be honored at the cancer center’s annual Winter Benefit on Saturday, March 10 at Stoney Creek Inn. The evening’s theme is “Fight Like the Irish – Stars and Angels Among Us”.

The Star award recognizes cancer patients with courage and grace that encourage and support fellow patients and survivors, according to Denise Wilson, winter benefit co-chairperson and volunteer on the winter benefit committee. The Angel award recognizes a family member, caregiver, volunteer, medical professional or anyone who has provided hope and inspiration to a person with cancer.

“Many of us know courageous patients who find the inner strength to encourage others,” says Deb Smith, winter benefit co-chairperson. “They embrace the opportunity to help other patients with the challenge of treatment and survival. We also want to recognize extraordinary people who touch the lives of cancer patients in very special ways. We want to honor their kindness, generosity, their strength.”

Last year the June E. Nylen Cancer Center honored Robin Koster and Vicki and Rich Caldwell at the Star and Angel Winter Benefit.

Robin Koster of Newell, Iowa was nominated by her nursing co-workers to receive the Star award. Her co-workers unanimously stated that as a cancer patient and a cancer nurse she is a source of strength and inspiration and has the unique ability to offer her professional knowledge and personal experience to each and every patient. As a nurse, wife and mother of five she has not let cancer slow her down and has not missed a day of work due to her illness. She is quick to point out the good and remind us all to enjoy life, not just get through it. Her courage, caring attitude, and smile are star qualities that have helped so many.

The Angel award went to Vicki and Rich Caldwell of Sioux City. They were nominated by Dianne Campbell and Jeanette Zortman who said the Caldwell’s are quick to help in any way they can. When they see a need they don’t just sit and ignore it, they are quick to offer love, support, a ride or whatever it takes to make a difference. Zortman and Campbell went on to say that their “friends have both battled cancer themselves but are such role models for so many with their strength and ability to be so strong for each other and others who fight this non-discriminating disease.” In addition to caring for various friends fighting cancer they are both wonderful volunteers and are quietly working their magic helping those who need a hand, giving very selflessly and with an infinite amount of love.

All nominees receive a gift and will be recognized at the award ceremony. Star and Angel nomination forms are available at the cancer center, by calling Pat Hubbard at 712.252.9352 or by email hubbardp@jencc.com or log onto www.nylencancercenter.com. Nominations are due by January 31, 2012.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, “No. His spirit is whole and his body is only temporary.”

I asked God to grant me patience. God said, “No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned.”

I asked God to give me happiness. God said, “No. I give you blessings; happiness is up to you.”

I asked God to spare me pain. God said, “No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.”

I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, “No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.”

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.  God said, “No. I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.”

I asked God to help me love others as much as He loves me.  God said, “Ah, finally you have the idea.”

~Anonymous

Have a very happy new year!