Newsletter Articles

As we celebrate another meaningful anniversary of OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, we reflect on how far we have come and share our excitement for the future. Thanks to your generosity, we have grown into a comprehensive, patient-centered institute offering advanced prevention, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, research and supportive services — all designed to care for the whole person. 

Looking ahead, we are leading in innovation, from expanding personalized medicine to exploring breakthrough therapies like FLASH proton beam radiation, which aims to deliver faster, safer treatments with fewer side effects. Your support makes this progress possible while  touching lives, renewing hope and shaping the future of cancer care for generations to come.

As we celebrate another meaningful anniversary of OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, I am filled with profound gratitude for you and with tremendous optimism for what lies ahead. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come together and to share our excitement for the future we’re building.

From the very beginning, our vision has been clear: To deliver exceptional, compassionate cancer care rooted in innovation, collaboration and respect for the dignity of every person we serve. Thanks to your generosity, that vision has grown into a comprehensive, patient-centered cancer institute offering advanced prevention, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and supportive services — all designed to care for the whole person: body, mind and spirit.

In just two years, OSF Cancer Institute has experienced remarkable growth. We have expanded access to leading-edge therapies, strengthened our multidisciplinary care teams and enhanced clinical trial opportunities that bring new treatment options closer to home. We have also invested in programs that support patients and families throughout every stage of their cancer journey recognizing that healing extends well beyond medical treatment alone.

Looking to the future, OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute is positioned to lead in innovation and discovery. We are committed to advancing research, expanding personalized medicine and embracing emerging technologies that will continue to transform cancer care. Our focus on collaboration — across specialties, across institutions and with our philanthropic partners — will be essential as we pursue bold ideas and breakthrough solutions. 

James L McGee, MD, MHCM, FACRO
Founding Director
OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

What if more cancers could be found sooner — and treated more effectively?” Jun Zhang, MD, PhD, vice president of Oncology Research at OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, shares how advanced technology, clinical trials and strong partnerships are accelerating discovery and turning research breakthroughs into real-world hope for patients and families.

Advancing Cancer Care Through Research, Innovation and Collaboration:
A Conversation with Dr. Jun Zhang 

At OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, research means “re-search” — looking again and again for better answers. As Dr. Jun Zhang, Petrakis Endowed Chair and vice president of Oncology Research at OSF Cancer Institute, explains, the work is grounded in three pillars: early diagnosis and prevention, innovative clinical trials, and translational research that moves discoveries directly to patients.

Pillar One: Earlier Detection and Prevention

Dr. Zhang believes earlier detection represents one of the greatest opportunities to improve cancer outcomes. Many patients with advanced disease share the same wish—that their cancer had been found earlier—and that reality fuels the Institute’s focus on prevention and screening. OSF already exceeds national benchmarks for lung, breast and colorectal cancer screenings, driven by strong partnerships with primary care physicians and expanded access across the state.

Technology plays a growing role in these efforts. AI enables analysis of both structured data, such as age or smoking history, and unstructured data from clinical notes and imaging. For example, a CT scan performed for abdominal pain may incidentally reveal a lung nodule.

“AI can flag that automatically so we can follow up,” Dr. Zhang notes. “It’s one of the best ways to catch cancer early in patients we might not otherwise consider high-risk.” OSF is also exploring blood-based detection methods to improve access for rural communities and reduce disparities.

Pillar Two: Expanding Access to Clinical Trials

When early detection isn’t possible, clinical trials offer new options. Dr. Zhang is working to establish OSF as a regional hub for innovative therapeutic trials across all phases. Phase I trials focus on safety, Phase II trials evaluates effectiveness and safety, and Phase III trials compares new treatments with standard care. He emphasizes that patient safety is always the priority and notes that untested treatments outside of clinical trials can pose significant risks to patients. OSF already has early-phase trials underway with additional studies in development that could help bring future FDA-approved therapies to patients.

Pillar Three: Translating Discoveries into Care

The third pillar — translational research — ensures scientific discoveries move efficiently from the lab into clinical care. Whether identifying biomarkers for early detection or advancing new drugs into testing, the goal is rapid, meaningful impact for patients. This work depends on collaboration across OSF and with partners such as Bradley University, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois State University and industry.

Dr. Zhang is energized by what lies ahead. “When clinicians, scientists, engineers and primary care teams work together,” he says, “we can truly change patient lives.” The vision is clear: an innovative research ecosystem delivering better diagnostics, better treatments and more hope for every patient served by OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute.

For over 25 years, The Woods Foundation has quietly and profoundly shaped the landscape of philanthropy in central and eastern Illinois. Guided by the generosity and vision of its founders, Robert J. Woods and Joan Jarrett Woods, The Woods Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of causes that uplift communities and transform lives. The commitment – a $1 million gift in 2024 to support the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute – demonstrates the depth of their passion for advancing healthcare and ensuring access to world-class cancer treatment close to home.

A Legacy Rooted in Quiet Philanthropy

The Woods Foundation was founded in 1998 as a way to extend the lifelong generosity of Robert J. Woods and Joan Jarrett Woods beyond their lifetimes. Robert, an attorney in Lincoln, Illinois, and his wife, Joan, were known for their quiet philanthropy, making significant contributions to local hospitals, colleges, libraries and other community institutions – almost always anonymously. Understanding the importance of sustaining this giving, their close associates, including their CPA Mike Abbott and business partner William B. Bates presented the idea of establishing a Foundation, ensuring that the Woods’ passion for giving would live on to serve and impact the community.

Since its inception, The Woods Foundation has sought to identify impactful opportunities for giving, with a particular focus on central Illinois. Unlike many foundations, it does not seek or raise money; instead, it exists purely to distribute funds where they are needed most. This approach has made the foundation a powerful yet quiet force in regional philanthropy.

Finding a Cause Worth Supporting: The OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

The Woods Foundation’s journey toward supporting the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute began with a simple conversation. Board member Dave Golwitzer, deeply involved in Peoria’s business community, learned of the Institute’s vision – a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide comprehensive cancer care, including cutting-edge proton therapy, clinical trials and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Recognizing the potential impact, the Foundation’s leadership embarked on a tour of the facility while it was still under construction.  

What they saw left a lasting impression and a strong desire to be a part of the good things to be generated through the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute.

From the massive proton therapy machine – one of the most advanced cancer treatment technologies available – to the integrated, patient-centered approach that OSF was building, The Woods Foundation’s leadership knew they had found a cause that aligned perfectly with their mission. In 2024, The Woods Foundation made a transformational $1 million gift to support the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, furthering its commitment to improving health care in central Illinois and beyond.

"It wasn’t just the proton therapy machine; it was the whole concept. The research, the team-based approach, the fact that everything a patient needs – from radiation to dietary support – is all in one place. It was a no-brainer for us."

  - Bill Bates, President and Board member with The Woods Foundation

A Personal Connection to the Mission

The decision to support the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute was not just a strategic one; it was deeply personal. Logan County, where The Woods Foundation is based in Illinois, has a disproportionately high rate of cancer cases. Many in the community, including board members of the foundation, have been directly impacted by cancer.

"My wife and I both had cancer," Board member Bill Bates shared. "Our oncologist in Springfield would tell us, ‘There’s something going on in Logan County – statistically, the number of cases we see from there is mind-blowing.’" Knowing that so many families in their community faced the same struggle, the Foundation saw the OSF Cancer Institute as an invaluable resource. With Peoria only a short drive away, having access to this level of care close to home could make an immeasurable difference.

The Impact and Future of Their Support

Nearly a year after their initial gift to the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, The Woods Foundation remains deeply committed to its mission. The transformation from a construction site to a fully operational facility delivering life-saving treatments has only reinforced their belief in the project. "To go from walking through the site with hard hats to now seeing it improving lives across central Illinois – it’s just incredible," they shared.  

While their contribution is just one piece of the larger puzzle, The Woods Foundation takes immense pride in knowing they played a vital role in bringing this world-class cancer care to the region. "We’re thrilled to be able to help in any way we can. This is one of the most significant projects we’ve ever supported, and its potential to change lives is enormous."

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Central Illinois

Board members for The Woods Foundation (William B. Bates, president; David Golwitzer, secretary; William B. Bates Jr., director; Chris Golwitzer, director; and Christy Cross, director) continue to actively seek out causes that align with their mission of strengthening communities, particularly in central Illinois. Their recent expansion of the board to include a fifth member who has been involved with the Foundation since its inception, ensures that the Woods' legacy of thoughtful, impactful giving will continue for generations to come.

As they reflect on their journey, The Woods Foundation remains committed to its guiding principle: giving not for recognition, but for the genuine betterment of people’s lives. Their $1 million gift in 2024 to the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute is just one chapter in their ongoing story of philanthropy – a story of quiet generosity, lasting impact and an unwavering belief in the power of community.

On a spring morning in 2023, Derick Stier was enjoying a cup of coffee while on his way to work. As he absentmindedly ran his hand through his beard, he noticed a lump on the left side of his throat. It wasn’t the first time he’d felt it – sometimes it would appear and then disappear. At first, Derick thought little of it, dismissing it each time. But as the months passed, the lump lingered in his thoughts.

Spring transitioned to summer and then fall, the busy harvest season for Derick, who lives in Wyanet and works in Walnut and is responsible for a fleet of grain and feed trucks serving rural Illinois farms. In addition to his truck-driving duties, Derick also helped his father manage the family farm. It was during a family dinner one evening toward the end of harvest season that the conversation took a turn. His wife, Danielle, mentioned that his cousin Jeff had shared on social media that he’d been diagnosed with cancer after discovering a lump in his throat.

That news hit close to home and prompted Derick to take action. He made an appointment with his primary care provider, Dr. Abby Vladika, who referred him to Dr. Jamal Ahmed for further evaluation. In December 2023, after a scope examination, Dr. Ahmed expressed a high likelihood that the lump was cancerous. A biopsy in February 2024 confirmed the diagnosis: cancer.

Derick’s cancer journey began in earnest as he met with his multidisciplinary care team at OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute. The team included Dr. Ahmed, Dr. Greg Hermann, and Jennifer Adedoyin, a dedicated cancer navigator, who worked together to develop a personalized treatment plan. Derick underwent surgery in March 2024 to remove his tonsils, part of his thyroid and a salivary gland. The next phase of his treatment included proton radiation therapy in April, which consisted of 35 sessions, as well as several rounds of chemotherapy.

However, just one week into chemotherapy, Derick experienced complications that revealed a heart issue. This new challenge required the placement of a stent to address the heart problem. Despite the unexpected setback, Derick described his journey as “seamless” in terms of coordination between his care teams. “From the doctors to the nurses, my care navigator, the dietitian, financial aid staff and even the social worker – everyone was focused on my health,” he said with a chuckle. “Then, throw in the heart issue, and now I have a whole new team — emergency room staff, a cardiologist and my local cardiac rehab team. It’s reassuring to know that my health is the priority for everyone involved.”

Thanks to the unwavering support of his care teams, Derick remained committed to his health and recovery. He found the strength to keep up with his work, only missing three days between his first surgery in March and his final proton therapy treatment on June 7, 2024.

Reflecting on his experience, Derick noted, “In those three and a half months, I aged significantly. My hair turned grayer, and my aches, pains, and strains were different. It was a lot, but I know I wouldn’t be here today if I hadn’t acted when I did.”

Derick’s advice to others: “If you don’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Call your primary care provider. A lump in your neck, no matter how small, is not normal. Early detection is key, and most health issues, if caught early, are 100% treatable.”

At OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, we are committed to supporting our patients and the community with a variety of educational and wellness-focused classes. From cooking and lifestyle tips to informative sessions and supportive group discussions, our classes are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to live well. Whether you're looking to improve your nutrition, learn new coping strategies or connect with others, we offer a range of opportunities to enhance your well-being. 

If interested in attending, please visit the calendar on our website.

Breast Friends… A networking group for those affected by breast cancer

4-5:30 p.m., Hope Conference Room, OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute.  

Planned meeting dates and topics:

• March 3 (Get to know your peers)
• June 2 (Menopause)
• September 8 (Bring your significant other along for Cooking Demo)
• December 1 (Holiday De-stress)

Combating Fatigue

4-6 p.m., OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

Planned meeting date:  February 4

Elevate Your Plate (A cooking class)

10 a.m., CEFCU Teaching Kitchen, OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

Planned meeting dates: February 4, March 11, April 8, May 13, June 10

Full Plate Living Healthy Lifestyle Program:  Small Steps … Big Health Outcomes

4 p.m., CEFCU Teaching Kitchen, OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute. For anyone who wants to learn how to eat enough fiber, have more energy and overall feel good. The program will help you add whole, unprocessed fiber to meals you already eat.

Planned meeting dates: February 5, February 12, February 19, February 26, March 5, March 12, March 19 

Laryngectomy Support Group

3:30-4:30 p.m., OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

Planned meeting dates:  February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17

LEAN on Me

4-5:30 p.m., OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

Planned meeting dates:  February 10, February 17, February 24, March 3, March 10

Lung Cancer Screening

8 a.m.-4 p.m., OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

February 14: Call (309) 308-0200 and select “option 3” to make sure you qualify to receive a low-dose CT scan. No charge. Give yourself some love this Valentine’s Day!

Nourish & Flourish

2 p.m., CEFCU Teaching Kitchen, OSF HealthCare Cancer Center

Planned meeting dates:  February 27 (Sweets), March 18 (All about the Veggies), April 22 (Plant based Proteins), May 20 (All About Fruit; this date only will meet at 3:00P)

Post-Mastectomy Support Group: Body Image & Intimacy

5-6 p.m., OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute

Planned meeting dates: February 5, February 19, March 5, March 19

WHY I GIVE:  “Cured my wife’s cancer.”  Donor G.

WHY I GIVE:  “Husband had prostate cancer—now cancer free.”  Donor U.

WHY I GIVE:  “17-year survivor from cancer.”  Donor K.

WHY I GIVE:  “Husband passed to bladder cancer May 2022.”  Donor G.

WHY I GIVE:  “Wife lived 27 years after diagnosis with cancer.”  Donor A.

WHY I GIVE:  “Has inactive stage 4 lung cancer.  Multiple family members passed of cancer.”  Donor N.

WHY I GIVE:  “Mother passed to breast cancer.”  Donor S.

WHY I GIVE:  “Sister and brother had lymphomas.”  Donor S.

WHY I GIVE:  “Cancer runs in family.”  Donor B.

WHY I GIVE:  “Had cancer three times.”  Donor S.