Winter 2020
Philanthropy Impacts Mother-Daughter Team Through DNA-10K Genetic Testing
A pioneering program supported by generous donors to the Transformation Through Innovation Fund impacted a mother and daughter’s future health.
The Transformation Through Innovation Fund was created in 2018 to honor Mark R. Neaman, retiring Chairman of the Board and longtime NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) President and Chief Executive Officer.
The Fund was established to provide vital seed funding for innovative projects that help transform patient care and improve health outcomes.
It was announced in 2019 that the first project funded would be a groundbreaking partnership with the industry-leading genomics technology company Color. This pilot program, dubbed DNA-10K, set the goal of incorporating advanced genomics into routine primary care for 10,000 patients, a goal that was reached in January of 2020.
No History
With no known family history of breast or ovarian cancer, Lake County schoolteacher Sandra McPherson had little reason to think she carried any hidden genetic risk for developing either form of the disease. Last year, during a regular checkup with her NorthShore OB/GYN Edward Lee, MD, she had the opportunity to participate in DNA-10K. “As physicians, we often advise our patients based on their own health history,” explained Dr. Lee, who holds an academic appointment at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. “That’s why genetic testing can be so helpful. When Sandra asked me about it, I was happy to encourage it. The more information we have, the better.”
This knowledge is powerful. I try to live in the moment, but I need to do what I can to protect my future and my family’s future.
Sandra McPherson DNA-10K Patient
Genetic Exploration
“When I got the results and saw that I had the BRCA2 mutation, I really just wanted to ignore it,” said McPherson. But her daughter Ali Oliveros, a 24-year-old biologist, insisted her mom take action since BRCA2 carries an elevated risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Oliveros accompanied her mom on initial appointments, with a genetic counselor and NorthShore Medical Oncologist Allison DePersia, MD, who specializes in caring for high-risk patients.
Critical Guidance
Dr. DePersia laid out McPherson’s options—from increased screening and surveillance to preemptive surgery—to reduce her risk of developing cancer. “At first, it was very overwhelming,” recalled the mother of three from Grayslake. “But Dr. DePersia was so nice, supportive and calm. She explained everything thoroughly. I trusted her.” McPherson underwent a bilateral mastectomy and reconstructive surgery last fall and plans to have her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed later this year. “By doing the surgeries, I’m significantly lowering my risk of getting cancer. I’m a proactive person. If there’s a problem, I find the solution.”
Family First
McPherson’s daughter did not hesitate to say yes when Dr. DePersia suggested that she, too, consider genetic testing. While Oliveros knew her odds, she admitted it was still a bit of a shock to learn that she also has the BRCA2 mutation. “I was hoping for different results, but I’m glad to know and can do something about it,” she said. Dr. DePersia recommended that Oliveros follow a new screening regimen for annual MRIs and breast exams every six months due to her higher risk. Oliveros also is considering a bilateral mastectomy within the next five years. This knowledge is powerful,” McPherson added. “I try to live in the moment, but I need to do what I can to protect my future and my family’s future.”
Next Steps for the Transformation Through Innovation Fund
The Fund is a multi-phased project with a goal of achieving in $50 million philanthropic support and NorthShore matching funds by the end of 2021. It was recently announced that 2020 funding will support the Kellogg Genomic Cancer Initiative. This 12-month pilot project includes 500 advanced cancer patients at NorthShore Kellogg Cancer Center. The pilot looks to build a sustainable model for delivering precision genomic care to cancer patients.
For more information on supporting the Transformation through Innovation Fund and other philanthropic initiatives at NorthShore, please visit Ways to Give or contact Janet Myers at 224.364.7212.
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