University Cancer & Blood Center

For nearly 40 years, University Cancer & Blood Center has been serving the oncology and hematology needs of patients in Athens, Northeast Georgia and beyond. As part of our mission to improve patient outcomes, our providers offer best-in-class care across medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and breast health. Learn more about the UCBC care team here: https://bit.ly/3zCsCHK

University Cancer & Blood Center is pleased to announce acclaimed breast surgeon Dr. Ashley Ray has received her certification in oncoplastic breast surgery through the NCBC National Consortium of Breast Centers! As a certified oncoplastic breast surgeon, Dr. Ray specializes in performing breast cancer surgery in tandem with plastic surgery techniques. This approach provides optimal cancer treatment while striving to maintain the breast’s natural appearance. Says Dr. Ray, "The main reason I chose to do the certification was to hone in on my surgical skills, develop more finesse, and continue the cosmetic outcomes of women battling breast cancer." Please join us in congratulating Dr. Ray on this incredible achievement! Learn more: https://bit.ly/3DgRnxP

On Saturday, March 22nd, join UCBC Cares Foundation for Strollin' For the Colon! ?? Register here: https://bit.ly/4iqLWep UCBC Cares invites YOU to lace up your sneakers and take a 1-mile fun walk to raise awareness for Colon Cancer! ?? Saturday, March 22nd ? 10:00 AM ?? University Health Alliance Campus 1460 Resurgence Dr., Watkinsville, GA 30677 Colon Cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable—and together, we can spread awareness while enjoying a morning of movement and community spirit! ?? ALL ARE WELCOME! Bring your friends, family, and neighbors to support this important cause. ?? SPONSORSHIPS ARE STILL AVAILABLE! Want to showcase your business and support a great cause? Email [email protected] to learn more! Tag a friend who needs to stroll with you! #StrollinForTheColon #UCBCCares #ColonCancerAwareness #WalkWithPurpose

Did you know Dr. Minesh Mehta of University Health Alliance was named one of "5 physicians on the cutting edge of gastroenterology" in Becker's ASC Review? In honor of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, we're revisiting this exciting feature! Read more: https://bit.ly/3XvNvzE

This week is #BrainAwarenessWeek, which is dedicated to increasing public awareness of brain health and research. ?? The brain is one of the more complex organs in the body, and the types of cancer that can affect it are multifaceted. More than 150 types of brain tumors have been documented to date. Part of what adds to the complexity of a brain cancer diagnosis is that while all brain cancers are made up of tumors, not all brain tumors are cancerous. Learn more about the different types of brain cancer below. ??

Colorectal cancer refers to cancers that begin in the tissue of the colon or the rectum, two parts of the gastrointestinal system that together form the large intestine. Most colorectal cancers begin as a growth on the inner lining of these organs, called "polyps," though not all become cancerous. Once cancer forms in the polyp, however, it can grow into the wall of the colon or rectum over time. In honor of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, learn more about the types of colorectal cancer at the link below: https://bit.ly/48z0hQE

Today, we celebrate and thank all of the incredible members of the UCBC team. ?? No matter your role at UCBC, every single person is an integral part of the compassionate, coordinated care we offer our patients, and we could not be more grateful for all you do. #EmployeeAppreciationDay

Get to know Atlanta Top Doctor, Dr. Ashley Ray! Dr. Ashley Ray is a fellowship-trained breast surgeon who sees patients at our Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center, Covington Clinic, and Eatonton Clinic. She also performs surgeries at Piedmont Athens Regional and St. Mary’s Health Care System hospitals. Dr. Ray’s lifelong interest in medicine, coupled with experiencing her mother and grandfather battle disease, inspired her field of study. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in both biology and psychology from the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. She earned her medical doctorate from Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon, Georgia, where she served as class president. As part of the UCBC team, Dr. Ray is the only female, fellowship-trained breast surgeon to practice in Athens. She is also a member of the Association of Women Surgeons, American College of Surgeons, American Medical Association, and American Society of Breast Surgeons. Learn more about Dr. Ray and our Top Doctors: https://bit.ly/40VNFm0

On Friday, March 7, join us for #DressInBlueDay to raise awareness of colorectal cancers. ?? In 2025, an estimated 154,270 people will be diagnosed with this highly preventable disease. They will join more than 1.5 million colorectal cancer patients and survivors living today. We go blue for them, their families, and their community. Learn more from Colorectal Cancer Alliance: https://bit.ly/4ilrYSx

UCBC's Advanced Practice Providers Shine at Oncology Summit in Atlanta! ?? We’re proud to announce that UCBC’s very own Advanced Practice Providers had the honor of presenting at the Oncology Summit in Atlanta, surrounded by some of Georgia’s top oncology experts! Melissa Dowd, FNP and Lauren Barnett, DNP delivered a compelling presentation on Survivorship Care and Targeted Therapies in Lung Cancer, sharing their expertise and insights on the latest advancements in treatment. Katelyn T. Gillespie, FNP contributed to the success of the summit as part of the planning committee, helping ensure a stellar event. Dr. Charles Bodine shared his expertise with an insightful presentation on Bladder Cancer, highlighting new strategies and therapies. We’re thrilled to be at the forefront of innovative oncology care alongside such incredible professionals! #OncologySummit #AdvancedPracticeProviders #LungCancer #BladderCancer #SurvivorshipCare #TargetedTherapies #UCBC #GeorgiaOncology