UPMC Pinnacle Foundation Raises $88,000 for UPMC Hillman Cancer Center’s Rocco & Nancy Ortenzio Fund for Clinical Excellence

September 10, 2024

HARRISBURG, Pa. – UPMC Pinnacle Foundation with the support of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., raised more than $88,000 at the Women’s Cancer Symposium on Saturday, Sept. 7 in Harrisburg. The funds will be added to the Rocco & Nancy Ortenzio Fund for Clinical Excellence that provides funding for advanced cancer research and for patients in need at UPMC Central PA Hillman Cancer Centers.

“The Fund for Clinical Excellence is crucial as it enables us to deliver the highest-quality, cutting-edge care and increase access to cutting edge research for our patients in central Pennsylvania,” said Kit Lu, M.D., director of the clinical trials program and associate director oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. “With oncology care continuously advancing, this fund ensures we remain at the forefront of cancer treatment.”

The comprehensive one-day event discussing how to advance knowledge in women's oncology was attended by over 100 physicians, nurses, social workers, exhibitors and other health care professionals.

The speakers addressed the latest developments in breast and gynecological cancer care, including axillary management, metastatic disease, new technologies, genomic testing, and reconstructive techniques. Supportive care, featuring discussions on sexual health after cancer, patient support, and nurse navigation was also addressed.

The Cancer Statistics, 2024 report from the American Cancer Society shows while cancer deaths are declining overall, there are some alarming trends, including an increase in cancer rates among younger people. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is one of just 56 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the country, which provides cutting-edge treatment and access to hundreds of clinical trials.

The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa. had approximately 40,000 patient visits for medical oncology and infusion in 2023, averaging close to 100 appointments per day. For more information or to schedule an appointment at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., visit UPMCHillman.com/CentralPA.