It can be devastating when a child is diagnosed with cancer or a blood disorder, but advances in treatments of these diseases is providing more hope. According to the National Cancer Institute, 80% of children diagnosed with cancer are alive at least five years after the diagnosis, and many will ultimately be considered cured. Gundersen Lutheran’s Pediatric Cancer & Blood Disorders provides cutting edge treatments that give children in the La Crosse area and surrounding communities a brighter future.
Gundersen Lutheran’s Pediatric Cancer & Blood Disorders provides services to patients from birth into young adulthood. Children diagnosed with cancer receive the same promising therapy close to home that’s offered anywhere in the country. Treatment might include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Or a combination
Children with cancer can receive the latest and best treatments by enrolling in clinical trials sponsored by the Children's Oncology Group (COG), a national childhood research coalition. Through COG, Gundersen Lutheran collaborates with other institutions committed to identifying more effective cancer treatment methods.
Gundersen Lutheran takes a team approach to meeting the needs of children with cancer and their families. Beyond the specially trained pediatric cancer doctors and nurses, the team includes experts:
- Child life
- Social work
- Pastoral care
- Behavioral health
- Music therapy
- Nutrition
- Palliative care (pain relieving and other comfort)