If your child is diagnosed with cancer or a serious blood disorder, your first reactions may be fear, anxiety and emotional turmoil — but they don’t have to be at the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center (JJCCC) at Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach. Childhood cancers, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, are more treatable than ever before—with survival rates at their highest in history—thanks to growing research efforts.
“The improvement in pediatric cancer survival rates is due to the advances of patient enrollment in treatment studies for each type of cancer,” says Dr. Termuhlen. “Our excellent survival rates demonstrate that we are better equipped than ever before. We give our patients and their families the best possible outcomes and contribute to successful treatments of the future.”
Not only is JJCCC one of only 230 primary institutions in the world-renowned Children’s Oncology Group –an international childhood cancer research network—but JJCCC also has expanded its research efforts to improve access to therapies for the Spanish-speaking population. Actively and aggressively recruiting in early clinical trials, JJCCC allows patients access to the latest clinical trials and a full-range of treatment options.
Taking Care of the Whole Child – Emotional & Supportive Care
Nationally recognized for excellence in hematology/oncology care, JJCCC has not only led the way in childhood cancer care for more than 30 years, but has always had a strong undertone in psychosocial care. In fact, JJCCC is the only pediatric cancer center in the region that offers extensive psychosocial care even in the outpatient setting.
With coordinated treatment centers in the hospital, day care and clinic areas, home health and community outreach programs, Miller Children’s offers a family centered approach that encompasses the medical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of patients and their families. Nurse navigators are available to help guide patients and their families along the cancer journey, and it’s not uncommon to see a young patient with cancer riding a tricycle down the hallway or petting a pet therapy dog in the playroom.
“Pediatric cancer is a disease that affects the whole family,” notes Dr. Termuhlen. “Although the child may be the only member of the family undergoing medical treatment, we never lose sight of our responsibility to the family as a whole. Not only is our center warm, inviting and family-friendly, but our approach to patient care embraces the importance of education, psychosocial support and counseling.”
Advancing the “Late Effects” of Pediatric Cancer Care
JJCCC serves as the “medical home” for children with cancer and serious blood disorders, guiding our patients through their journey well into young adulthood. JJCCC’s Late Effects Program helps patients, who are no longer undergoing treatment, understand and manage the late effects of cancer therapy following surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Patients receive assessments of any late effects they may have and are directed to services, treatment and community resources.