Marian Greenblatt Education Fund

The Fund is currently supporting breast cancer research led by Karen L. Smith, M.D., M.P.H., a medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center at Sibley Memorial Hospital and assistant professor of oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.  Dr. Smith uses philanthropic funds to open new multi-site clinical trials at Sibley, to support the cancer research infrastructure through new equipment and technology, and to enhance the patient experience through Quality Improvement initiatives.  Quality Improvement initiatives include a multidisciplinary clinic for women living with metastatic disease, evaluating new strategies to enhance wellness in these patients, and a second multidisciplinary clinic for elderly women with early breast cancer.  Dr. Smith's research primarily focuses on patient-reported outcomes and reducing toxicities of cancer therapy.  She is interested in improving the lives of all patients facing breast cancer but has a special focus on those living with metastatic disease, those diagnosed at a young age, and those at risk for recurrence of hormone-receptor positive disease.  Dr. Smith and her team are participating in a wave of innovation to bring the best quality cancer care to our community. 

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The Marian Greenblatt Fund is also proud to support the Oncology Nurse Navigator Program at Suburban Hospital.  Each year, Suburban Hospital treats more newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients than any other hospital in Montgomery County.  The hospital's Oncology Nurse Navigator Program provides complimentary resources to newly-diagnosed cancer patients and their families.  With the help of experienced and professionally trained oncology nurse navigators, patients can deal more easily with the many questions, decisions, and challenges that accompany a cancer diagnosis.  Specifically, nurse navigators assist with education and research related to diagnosis and/or treatment options, including clinical trials; translation of medical terminology; communication with physicians and other members of the healthcare team; obtaining referrals to community services for support groups; transportation, financial assistance, and providing emotional support.