In the heart of Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Proton Center has become a beacon of hope for cancer patients. In an exclusive interview, we delve into the center’s history, growth and the invaluable support provided by the ProtonPals Foundation.
Join us now as we explore the journey of a facility that has become a vital player in Oklahoma’s—and the world’s—fight against cancer.
The Oklahoma Proton Center opened its doors over 14 years ago, marking the initiation of a transformative chapter in cancer care. While thousands of facilities across the nation offer traditional radiation treatment using photons, only a select 42 centers in our nation actually specialize in proton therapy.
“The first dedicated proton facility opened at Loma Linda University in 1990. From 1990 up until this center opened in 2009, there were only five total centers that opened, and Oklahoma Proton Center was the sixth,” said David Raubach, Oklahoma Proton Center's chief development officer.
“Today, there’s over 40! So, there’s been significant growth in the proton industry over the last decade or so," he added.
This exponential growth underscores the increasing recognition of proton therapy as a powerful tool in the battle against cancer.
Proton therapy stands at the forefront of advanced radiation treatment, catering to a diverse array of cancers and tumor types. Diverging from conventional radiation modalities like X-rays or photons, such as IMRT and CyberKnife, protons possess a distinctive physical property, according to the center’s website.
This property empowers radiation oncologists to precisely target a patient’s cancer, guiding protons to halt within the tumor and sparing healthy tissues and organs from exposure. This targeted approach significantly reduces the likelihood of undesirable side effects.
Notably, proton therapy has demonstrated superior overall survival outcomes and lower recurrence rates in certain cases compared to alternative forms of radiation treatment, underscoring its efficacy and potential benefits.
The ProtonPals Foundation, established in 2018, stands as a testament to the commitment of the Oklahoma Proton Center to provide comprehensive support to its cancer patients. The foundation serves as a lifeline for patients facing financial struggles, ensuring they can focus on their treatment without the added burden of financial stress.
What sets the ProtonPals Foundation apart is the personal touch brought by former patients who now form the foundation’s board. This unique perspective allows the foundation to address the diverse needs of patients, understanding the challenges they face during their cancer journey.
“If a patient comes to us and they are financially struggling and trying to make their bills and just really having a hard time, they fill out an application form, and we’ll review and approve for different options to help such as gas money, gas cards, hotel stays, meals, access to mental health professionals," said Jeff Moody, ProtonPals Foundation Board member and cancer survivor.
"Anything we can do to enhance their peace of mind while they’re going through their treatment plan at the center is very important to us,” he added.
Every two weeks, completed treatment plan successes are celebrated with a graduation ceremony, symbolized by a special coin gifted to each graduate.
The center opens its doors to the public through tours held twice a year, offering a glimpse into the cutting-edge technology and compassionate care that define the facility.
Interested in showing your support for these two organizations? The ProtonPals Foundation hosts annual fundraisers, including a dinner auction at the Skirvin Hotel and a golf tournament in mid-June.
Support from donors and volunteers also are critical to the foundation's ability to serve families battling cancer. There are several ways to help!
Special Events - Help organize fundraising and community events by helping with ticket sales, decorations, refreshments, marketing and other logistical aspects of event planning.
General Office - Help make copies, collate and staple program or promotional packets. Prepare mailings, deliver gift or gas cards to patients or other office duties as needed.
Computer - Help enter data (database software or excel spreadsheet experience required).
Outreach - With staff help, represent Proton Pals at health fairs, races, churches and community events or introduce foundation members to people who may want to get involved as a volunteer or donor.
The foundation’s website, ProtonPalsFoundation.org, serves as a hub for those seeking more information and looking to contribute to their worthy cause.
The Oklahoma Proton Center is leaving an indelible mark on the fight against cancer for Oklahomans and beyond. To learn more about proton therapy and the center's radiation oncology doctors, read patient testimonials or to check out an upcoming tour of the center, visit OKCProton.com.
Oklahoma Proton Center
5901 West Memorial Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73142
405.554.5271