During National Cancer Survivors Month, UTRGV highlighted how expanded cancer care in the Rio Grande Valley is changing the experience for patients who previously had to travel for advanced treatment.
The story centers on Palmhurst resident Arnold Rodriguez, a former educator and cancer survivor who has faced prostate cancer, follicular lymphoma and multiple relapses.
Earlier parts of Rodriguez treatment required CAR-T cell therapy and extended stays in Houston, including weeks spent away from home during the holidays. When his prostate cancer recurred, his care experience was different because specialized radiation therapy was available close to home at the UT Health RGV Cancer and Surgery Center.
Rodriguez said receiving treatment minutes from home allowed him to stay near family, avoid hotel costs and maintain more of his daily life.
Dr. Wilbur Bowne, a UT Health RGV surgical oncologist and chair of the Department of Surgery at the UTRGV School of Medicine, said the center is designed to guide patients through complex cancer care with a multidisciplinary team.
The center offers surgical, medical and radiation oncology, along with imaging and supportive services in one location. UTRGV officials said that reduces the burden of coordinating care across multiple cities or providers.
The story also highlights cancer survivor Bruce Curry, who initially expected to travel to San Antonio but began care through UT Health RGV within days instead of waiting weeks for an outside appointment.
Rodriguez has since become a Latino cancer patient advocate, helping other patients understand survivorship, clinical trials and treatment options. UTRGV physicians said local cancer services are critical for Valley families facing diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
Source: UTRGV Newsroom
