CyberKnife Patient Story: Sue Rubin

Sue Rubin, a lung cancer patient being treated at MercyOne Des Moines Cancer Center, is grateful for the personalized and innovative care she has received through her cancer journey.

Sue was diagnosed with lung cancer in late 2013 and started long-term radiation treatment in 2014. She has undergone multiple rounds of radiation, with her last two treatments being done on the new CyberKnife® S7™ System that was funded through the Campaign for the MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center.

“The treatment on the new CyberKnife machine took a lot less time than my previous treatments, which was great,” Sue said.

Innovative technology directly impacts and enhances the quality of care that patients like Sue receive.

“The whole group at MercyOne Des Moines Cancer Center was great,” said Sue. “I feel like I was given the best possible care working with the staff in radiology.”

“Dr. Martin was my radiation oncologist and I can’t say enough about him, he went above and beyond.”

Sue shared her appreciation for the staff at the cancer center. They considered her comfort level during treatment. They would make accommodations for her, like letting her bring in her own pillow, choosing the music that played and providing flexibility so treatment schedules fit her calendar.

“I’ve been going through this journey for several years, all the staff have been really nice to me,” said Sue. “I think I probably could have asked for anything and they would have given it to me.”

If you would like to learn more about the Campaign for the MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center please contact MercyOne Des Moines Foundation Senior Director of Development Joan Bindel at 515-643-8020 or jbindel@mercydesmoines.org.