Huntsman Cancer Institute

Kristianna Kundrat, DNP, understands the challenges women face after cancer treatment—not just as a provider, but as a daughter. Her mother’s breast cancer journey showed her that recovery is about more than treating the disease; it’s about supporting the whole person. Now, as a provider in our Sexual Health and Wellbeing Clinic, she helps women navigate the often-overlooked aspects of survivorship, providing care that honors both their health and quality of life. Read her story and find out more about her work: https://bit.ly/3DlxENp

We are proud to announce that Deanna Kepka, PhD, MPH, has been named the inaugural leader of the Global Oncology Initiative. With extensive experience and a strong dedication to cancer prevention and global health, she is well-positioned to lead this important effort. This initiative will foster international collaboration to advance cancer research, enhance prevention strategies, and expand access to innovative screening methods. https://bit.ly/4h1PfYp

In 2025, about one in five cancers diagnosed in the U.S. will be considered rare, meaning fewer than six people per 100,000 are diagnosed with it each year. Though uncommon individually, rare cancers make up about 25% of all diagnoses—impacting more than 400,000 people annually. The zebra, known for its unique stripes, represents those living with rare diseases. This weekend, the Beacon of Hope will shine in zebra stripes to honor Rare Disease Day and recognize our patients, caregivers, loved ones, and the dedicated researchers and clinicians working to advance care and research for rare cancers.

Clinical trials are essential to advancing cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. At any given time, we have over 300 active trials driving new discoveries and improving patient outcomes. But the process can be complex, and misconceptions are common. Get the facts and see how clinical trials are shaping the future of cancer care. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3wXPm6x

Nearly 75% of Americans drink coffee—often multiple cups of it—every day. While research about potential health effects are ongoing and complex, a recent study has good news for coffee and tea drinkers. Yuan Chin Amy Lee, PhD, the senior author on the study, explains the relationship between head and neck cancer and coffee and tea consumption—and clears up some common misconceptions: https://bit.ly/4gWPCU0

We are proud to announce that Dr. Anna Parks has received the American Society of Hematology Junior Faculty Scholar Award. This prestigious award supports promising early career hematologists committed to advancing the field through innovative research. Congratulations, Dr. Parks, on this well-deserved recognition! https://bit.ly/3D3lx7t

“I lost my hair. I lost the majority of my body weight. I lost my ovary. I lost my autonomy. Fertility preservation is hard, but it brings back the choice to potentially be a parent if my body does not allow me to be. And I want everyone to have that option.” As our Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Patient Navigator, Dawn Ritzwoller, MPH is dedicated to helping young patients understand how cancer treatment can impact fertility. For her, this work is deeply personal. At just 13 years old, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She underwent extensive treatment but didn’t learn until years later that it could affect her ability to have children. A cancer diagnosis comes with many uncertainties, and for young patients, fertility should be part of the conversation. Dawn works closely with our oncofertility program to ensure patients have the information and support they need to explore their options. Through a multidisciplinary team of oncologists and fertility specialists from University of Utah Health Women's Services, we bridge oncology and reproductive medicine to provide innovative, patient-centered care. Read more about her story and the innovative fertility preservation services available: https://bit.ly/41AcWmt

Join us for the Project Next Breast & Gynecological Cancers Research Symposium on March 21st. This annual event fosters collaboration between researchers, patients, and survivors, highlighting the importance of patient perspectives in shaping cancer research. Graduate students and postdoctoral researchers will present their latest findings on breast and gynecologic cancers, with a focus on understanding cancer at the molecular level and improving future care. Don’t miss this chance to engage with the minds shaping the future of cancer research! huntsmancancer.org/events

In the fall of 2023, we launched an innovative partnership with Utah Valley University—the HCI-UVU Health Collaborative. Through this program, UVU students are gaining hands-on experience in cancer research, patient care, and professional services. From working in labs to supporting patients, these students are shaping the future of health care. Learn more about this exciting partnership: https://bit.ly/3Qr7v2y

At just ten years old, Gunner Stringham was diagnosed with sarcoma and traveled over 200+ miles from his home in Kimberly, Idaho, to Salt Lake City for treatment with Dr. Kevin Jones. Seven years later, Gunner is cancer-free and a senior year in high school. For his football senior night, he turned the spotlight on cancer awareness—sharing his story, honoring other survivors, and raising money for cancer research at Huntsman Cancer Institute. This time, Dr. Jones made the 200+ mile drive to be there for him. Read more about Gunner’s diagnosis, treatment, and paying it forward on the field: https://bit.ly/413iqV9