Filed by Michael Cross in Feature, Health, Local News, News.
November 23, 2009

People with cancer and their families have a new hope at the new Integris Cancer Institute of Oklahoma.

Officials gathered last week to dedicate the new 135,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility next door to the Pro Cure Proton Therapy Center in Northwest Oklahoma City.

Governor Henry got a firsthand look last week at one of the linear accelerators at the new Integris Cancer center of Oklahoma near North MacArthur and Memorial Road in Oklahoma City.

The machine uses a cone-beam cat scan to provide pinpoint accuracy of radiation to fight tumorous cancers.

Earlier in the day about a hundred people gathered in the front lobby of the facility for its dedication.

Governor Henry says Oklahomans are known for their compassion and care, from the Oklahoma City bombing to Hurricane Katrina.

He says so many people have been affected in some way by cancer.

“Most of us either know somebody have a family member or have had an experience ourselves. My father died from lung cancer, and this is a very important cause for me.”

The Governor says thanks to Integris, Oklahomans no longer have to travel more than 400 miles away to get great cancer care.

“Now we have a new facility that offers world class treatment and the most sophisticated, cutting edge equipment in the world. This facility will make a tremendous difference.”

Kiran Prabhu, a radiation oncologist at the Integris Cancer Institute says today the disease of cancer is no longer a death sentence.

Doctor Prabhu says the fight against cancer must include the best technology, updated medication and a dedicated medical staff.

“Coupled with patient-focused care, this allows us to provide a seamless experience for patients, families and their caregivers.”

The Integris Cancer Institute uses electronic filing so there are no paper charts and patient information can be shared with the more than 13 Integris facilities across the state.

Partnered with ProCure Proton Therapy, Doctor Prabhu says physicians can destroy tumors while sparing normal tissue.

“This technology is particularly useful to treat tumors close to critical structures, tumor where a high dose of radiation is needed and in childhood malignancies where the growing tissue is exquisitely sensitive to radiation.”

Integris President and CEO Stan Hupfeld says patients will get help for their mind and spirit as well as their body.

“In this facility we’re going to offer counseling, we’re going to offer nutritional advice, support groups, prayer and meditation and exercise and wellness.”

Looking around the $100 million facility, Governor Henry says it’s a dream come true for everyone involved.

“Clearly that Oklahoma spirit of compassion and goodness and caring for others is alive and well in the Integris cancer institute of Oklahoma.”

The facility employs more than 200 people and officials expect to treat about 1500 patients a year.