Fox 28: South Bend, Elkhart IN News, Weather, SportsPediatric Hematology/Oncology Program

Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Program

Phone:574-647-6892 or 800-284-6892

Program
Frequent trips to Indianapolis were routine for Michiana children diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders. But today, the Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology Program at Memorial Hospital provides many of the same essential services close to home.

Developed in 1992 in affiliation with Riley Children's Hospital in Indianapolis, this satellite program —the first of its kind in affiliation with Riley—helps reduce the many trips to Indianapolis and back for routine treatments. Memorial's Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology clinical staff is led by Timothy Griffin, M.D. The comprehensive team includes a pediatric nurse practitioner, nurses, social services staff and a parent advocate. Together, they offer children and their families personal counseling, psychological support and coordination of treatment to minimize the impact of a chronic disease on daily life.

Services Include:

• Sickle cell therapy
• Blood transfusions
• Lab draws
• Specialized hematology testing
• Teaching and school outreach
• Family activities
• Monthly clinics with Riley Children's Hospital specialists
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hemophilia management
• Nutritional counseling
• Pediatric oncology support group
• Bereavement services

To date, the program has served more than 300 children and their families with medical services, referrals and emotional support. An added benefit is the Parent Advocate, who helps parents understand their child's disease and coordinates services for families who need them.

Many fun gatherings and events for families are planned throughout the year by the Parent Advocate such as a Halloween party at Coveleski Stadium and a Christmas party with Notre Dame athletes.

Contact Pediatric Oncology Parent Advocate, Tammy Robison at 800-284-6892 for information on meeting dates and party activities.

  • Memorial Regional Cancer Center - Meet Our DoctorsMemorial Regional Cancer Center - Meet Our Doctors

  • David Hornback, M.D., received his medical degree and completed his residency in radiation oncology at Indiana University School of Medicine, and servedhis internship through the Transitional Residency
    David Hornback, M.D., received his medical degree and completed his residency in radiation oncology at Indiana University School of Medicine, and servedhis internship through the Transitional Residency

  • Dr. Kelly received his medical degree from Northwestern Medical School in 1973 and completed residencies in general surgery and cardiothoracic surgery at the Barnes Hospital-Washington University School of Medicine in 1981.

  • Dr. Maher received his bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois and his medical degree from The Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (Midwestern University).
    Dr. Maher received his bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois and his medical degree from The Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (Midwestern University). Postgraduate training included a pediatric residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu and a fellowship in pediatric hematology/oncology at Walter Reed Army Medical Center

  • Dr. McGrath received his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan.

  • Dr. Morrison received her medical degree from Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, IL and completed her residency in pediatrics at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, IL.

  • Dr. Yount received his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his residency in neurological surgery at the Indiana University School of Medicine.