Workshops

Grand Rounds Plenary Session | 9-10 AM

Understanding and Improving the Quality of Cancer Treatment

Presented by Dawn Hershman, MD, MS, FASCO Chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology and Director of the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center

This workshop is designed to help patients and caregivers better understand the journey of living with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) metastatic breast cancer. Together, we will walk through what the diagnosis means, how doctors decide on treatment options, and what to expect along the way. A key part of the session will focus on genomic testing and liquid biopsy results – what they are, how they’re used, and how they can provide important clues about which treatments may work best. The workshop will also highlight supportive care resources and offer practical questions you can bring to your healthcare team to feel more confident and informed throughout the treatment process.

Workshop Descriptions

Workshops to be assigned to either 10:30 – 11:30 am or 1:45 – 2:45 pm timeslot.

Aromatase Inhibitors: The Good, The Bad, and The Future

Presented by Cristina Truica, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine at Penn State Health

This workshop will review the general endocrine treatment of breast cancer and, more specifically, the mechanism of action of aromatase inhibitors, the different drugs in this class with their particulars, the benefit of these drugs in adjuvant and metastatic settings, and the side effects of these drugs, as well as new drugs that are on the horizon.

Beyond Treatment: Navigating Late Effects and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivorship

Presented by Beth Rudge, CRNP, WHNP-BC, CBCN, Supervisor Nurse Practitioner of the Breast Care Center and Survivorship Program at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center of Central Pennsylvania

This workshop explores the physical, emotional, and practical challenges that can arise after breast cancer treatment ends. This session will provide survivors and healthcare professionals with evidence-informed strategies to recognize and manage common late- and long-term effects of treatment, improve quality of life, and support ongoing wellness.

Cancer and Aging: The Complexities and Nuances of the Care of Older Adults with Cancer

Presented by Efrat Dotan, MD, MTR, Executive Medical Director of the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health

With age comes wisdom, as well as an increased risk of cancer. This workshop will explore various challenges and concerns that arise when living with cancer as you age, alongside tools used to evaluate overall health and fitness to inform cancer treatment. By the end of this session, attendees will be better equipped to understand the complexities and nuances of cancer that comes with aging.

Comprehensive Update on Breast Reconstruction

Presented by Joseph Serletti, MD, FACS, Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Penn Medicine

Description coming soon!

Eating Well, Living Strong: Nutrition and Breast Cancer

Presented by Emily Santanna MEd, RDN, LDN & Melissa Logan MHSc, RDN, LDN, Regional Dietitians at Weis Markets

Join two registered dietitians for an evidence-based discussion on nutrition and breast cancer. Discover practical strategies for making informed food choices, understanding nutrition labels, and building eating habits that support recovery and long-term wellness.

How Breast Cancer Spreads: The Science Behind Metastasis to Prevent Relapse

Presented by Lucia Boriello, PhD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology at Fox Chase Cancer Center

This workshop will discuss how breast cancer cells spread from the primary tumor to distant organs, a process known as metastasis. We will review the different steps involved in metastatic progression, how formant tumor cells may contribute to relapse, and the current and emerging therapeutic strategies being developed to prevent and treat metastatic breast cancer.

Living with Lymphedema: How Exercise can Affect Lymphedema

Presented by Melanie Potiaumpai, PhD, MPH, EP-C, Co-Director of the UPMC Moving through Cancer Program and Assistant Professor in the Division of Hematology Oncology at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center

Living with or at risk for lymphedema can make exercise feel intimidating, but the science tells a different story. This presentation will explore what research says about exercise and breast cancer-related lymphedema, dispel common myths, and provide practical guidance for safely staying active to support health, recovery, and quality of life.

Mindful Moments: Stretching and Movement for Survivors and Thrivers

Presented by Kristy Lair, Certified Master Personal Trainer and Breast Cancer Recovery Specialist at Kickstart Fitness for Women

Stretching isn’t just for those running marathons! Stretching helps reduce muscle tension, increase circulation, and improve flexibility – and best of all, it can be done by everyone, regardless of physical ability. In this workshop, you’ll learn stretches to do throughout your day to help stay active. Connect with your body in a gentle way to move and learn some new stretches that can be done anywhere.

P3lking Wisely: Targeted Endocrine Therapies for Hormone Receptor Positive Breast Cancer

Presented by Stephen Manobianco, Jr., MD, Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center

Whether breast cancer is hormone receptor positive, or hormone receptor negative have a large impact on determining breast cancer treatment. Attendees will learn about approved and upcoming targeted therapies for both HR- and HER2-negative breast cancer. Also discussed in this workshop will be the unique side effects these medications can have and best practices for support throughout the treatment journey.

Radiation Therapy in Breast Cancer: Benefits, Side Effects, and Expectations

Presented by Austin Iovoli, Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology at Geisinger Health System

Radiation therapy plays a critical role in the treatment of breast cancer. This session will provide a clear, accessible overview of how radiation therapy works, its benefits in reducing recurrence, and what patients can realistically expect during and after treatment. Common side effects – both short- and long-term – will be discussed, along with practical strategies for management and maintaining quality of life.

Updates in the Care and Treatment of Breast Cancer Patients

Presented by Amy Jhaveri, MD, Breast Cancer Disease Team Leader and Division Chief of Hematology Oncology at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health