Nassif Community Cancer Center

10/15/2026

When Vanessa Vega was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 40, she first thought, 'why me?' But after realizing the opportunity she had to educate and inform other women, she thought, 'why not me?'

Read her story 👇

Vanessa Vega of Cedar Rapids is a former NCAA Division I basketball player, a current high school coach and an avid runner. She’s always been a healthy and active person, […]

10/13/2026

Every day, Kim Stromert cares for children as a nurse practitioner at UnityPoint Clinic Pediatrics – Hiawatha.

Then, she found herself on the other side of care.

After breast cancer was discovered during a routine MRI screening, Kim became a patient at the Nassif Community Cancer Center. Today, she's sharing her story and encouraging others to stay on top of screenings, ask questions and advocate for their health.

Read Kim's story 👇

Kim Stromert spends her days caring for children, but recently found herself on the other side of care—as a breast cancer patient.

10/13/2026

Members of our cancer care team recently shared their expertise at the 2026 Nelson Critical Care Conference hosted by UnityPoint Health - Cedar Rapids.

Connie Dietiker, care coordinator, and Alex Bribriesco, MD, thoracic surgeon, joined Monica Farmer, RRT, respiratory therapy supervisor at St. Luke's, to present "Detection to Diagnosis: A Patient's Lung Nodule Journey."

Their presentation highlighted how a multidisciplinary team works together to guide patients from initial detection through diagnosis, ensuring timely, coordinated and compassionate care every step of the way.

Our team was honored to share its expertise with fellow healthcare professionals and contribute to conversations that advance patient care across our region.

---------

Images description: Photos from the 2026 Nelson Critical Care Conference show Connie Dietiker, RN, Alex Bribriesco, MD, and Monica Farmer, RRT, presenting a session on lung nodule detection, diagnosis and coordinated patient care at the Hotel at Kirkwood in Cedar Rapids.

10/12/2026

Join us in Stompin' Out Breast Cancer today from 3-10 p.m. at Texas Roadhouse! Mention the Nassif Community Cancer Center and 10% of your food purchase will benefit our patients.

10/09/2026

“There’s such an amazing group of people here to help you with everything. It doesn’t matter what it is. Somebody will be there to help you through it in such a patient, kind and informative way.”

Learn how a supportive team and coordinated care made Barb's breast cancer journey a 'seamless' experience 👇

Early detection, coordinated care and comprehensive support made all the difference for Barb during her breast cancer journey.

10/09/2026

This month, you'll see our campus glowing pink and mammogram awareness signs displayed across our facilities as we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

For women at average risk, annual mammograms are recommended beginning at age 40. A screening mammogram can help detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms develop.

If you're due for a screening mammogram, request an appointment online at uph.link/CR-RequestAMammogram

---------

Images description: Photos show UnityPoint Health campuses in Cedar Rapids lit with pink lighting for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Additional images feature pink signs and a large banner reading "Mammograms Save Lives," encouraging women to schedule routine breast cancer screenings and mammograms.

10/07/2026

When was your last mammogram?

That simple question has become one Julie Pladsen asks often after a routine screening led to an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis. Now, she's sharing her story to encourage other women to prioritize routine mammograms and early detection.

Read Julie's story below 👇

After facing breast cancer, a Cedar Rapids woman and her mother traveled to France to race alongside thousands of survivors from around the world.

10/06/2026

Therese Michels with UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's Hospital answers the most common questions and misconceptions about screening.

10/02/2026

A meal out can make a difference!

All October long, guests at Texas Roadhouse in Cedar Rapids can round up their bill or make a donation to help provide Texas Roadhouse gift cards for our patients.

Also, be sure to join us on Monday, Oct. 12 for a Dine to Donate Night. Mention the Nassif Community Cancer Center to your server, and 10% of your purchase will support local patients through Texas Roadhouse gift cards.

Thank you, Texas Roadhouse, for joining us in this !

10/01/2026

From a breast cancer diagnosis at age 32 to racing alongside her mother in France at the 2026 IBCPC Participatory Dragon Boat Festival, Abbey Lange's journey is one of strength, resilience and survivorship.

This , read how a mother and daughter found healing, friendship and a shared purpose on the water. 👇

After facing breast cancer, a Cedar Rapids woman and her mother traveled to France to race alongside thousands of survivors from around the world.