The Farber Center: For Radiation Oncology

CHERYL RAMSAY, NYC
1/22/2012

My worst fears were realized when I was told those dreaded words “you have breast cancer”.  I knew then that my life had changed, and I thought of the worst possible scenarios.  After my lumpectomy, I had to find an institution that did not only provide the 5 days of radiation I needed for 6 weeks or so, but one that also cared about my well being.  I can attest, without hesitation that I found what I was looking for at The Farber Center.
I called the Farber Center and made an appointment to see Dr Marnee Sperier.  I spoke with Vivian, and after scheduling my appointment, she assured me that they will take care of me. Those words meant so much to me.  At that moment I felt that I had received a much needed hug from someone who I had never met, but someone who cared.  My first visit to the Farber Center, I was greeted by Sammi, such a pleasant person.  For some reason, I got lost and could not find the address.  Sammi came out of her office and greeted me on the street.  She made me feel special. I know of no other medical facility, where a receptionist comes outside to escort a first time patient.  I soon came to realize that caring, personable people are employed at the Farber Center.  Upon entering the center, I felt the calming, quiet and friendly atmosphere.  The office is lovely, it seemed as though I was walking into an immaculate Spa. The first thing I was asked was whether I needed   a cup of coffee.  Having to deal with my condition the atmosphere felt much more than welcomed but at home. I then met with Dr Spierer, who spoke with me at length and explained what my radiation treatment would entail.  She answered all my questions.  As I spoke with Dr Spierer, I felt like I was sitting in the living room speaking with my best friend.  Dr Spierer is such a down to earth person.  Her professionalism, caring demeanor and warmth convinced me that she had to be my doctor. 
 During my six plus weeks of radiation treatment at the Farber Center, I could not have asked for a better group of people to take care of me, than those at the Farber Center of Radiation Oncology.  I looked forward to my weekly meetings with Dr Sperier and Dr Jacowitz (Dr ‘J”).  They definitely helped me to get through the process.  Even though my radiation treatment is over, Dr Spierer is always available whenever I have a question to be answered, of just feel the need to talk and be reassured.  I am forever grateful to Dr Spierer and the entire staff at the Farber Center.

Cheryl

NICOLETTA AGNELLI, NYC
12/1/2011

"You'll have to have 6 weeks of radiation. 5 days a week for 6 weeks." I was so elated to hear 'radiation' and not 'chemo ' that I did not even think of the ramifications of such a prescription and what effect it would have on my body or psyche. Everyone else thought about it for me, told me about the horrors of radiation, the hours spent waiting for appointments in dingy waiting rooms and the horribly noisy machines employed in the act of radiation. Let me tell you, were they misinformed. First, never pay attention to anyone who has not actually experienced something like radiation. Everyone's disease is different and everyone's radiation is different. At The Farber Center, I was greeted and treated from day one as a 'special' person not one of the crowd, not one with a curable cancer or a terminal cancer, but someone who deserved and got all the special attention that any patient should receive. The atmosphere from entrance was one of calm confidence and amazing good humor. I immediately felt that I would be taken care of not only physically but spiritually as well. Everyone there, from the smiling receptionists to the fabulous, expert technicians, and the marvelous doctors took responsibility for the energy they brought to the patients . It was unwaveringly healing, joyous energy. It is difficult not to respond positively to that kind of energy, and positive thinking helps anyone heal.
I was one of the fortunate patients. There were others much more ill than I. They received the same thoughtful consideration, total attention and compassion. That their spirits were lifted was visible and I am sure this kind of attention aided in their journey toward a better outcome. The center provided light, laughter, and a lovely (very chic) place to be while waiting for your appointment which was ALWAYS prompt. There were copious refreshments for those, who, like I, cannot go without coffee for too long, and teas to soothe or invigorate. The center also considers your spiritual self and has partnered with the Donna Karan Urban Zen project offering yoga and stretching and reiki etc. for those who wish to assuage their minds as well as their bodies after undergoing the rigors of a cancer diagnosis. The Center was so inviting that many came early or stayed after their appointments to enjoy the calm atmosphere, feel the emanation of health and good spirits and take in the beautiful aquariums there to ease the trepidacious soul. The Farber Center for 6 weeks, 5 days a week was the highlight of my day and will remain a bright spot in my life. I am honored to know such fine people.

Nicoletta Agnelli

HOLLIE PETREZ, NYC
11/4/2011

I would sincerely like to thank everyone at The Farber Center for making a very scary life changing experience a manageable one.

I can remember my first day at The Farber Center, I was very nervous, not knowing what to expect. As soon as I entered through the doors the warm and pleasant attitude of the staff quickly made me feel at ease.

The staff at The Farber Center are very caring and professional. Through out my seven weeks of treatment, I’ve grown to love each and every on of them. They’re like family to me. Everyone goes out of their way to make sure that patients are their number one priority. I will miss them dearly.

I would highly recommend The Farber Center to anyone that needs radiation treatment of any kind. Thank you again Dr. Farber and your entire staff for the best professional medical treatment ever. I will never forget any of you.  

Forever Grateful,
Hollie Petrez

ANNE LEE and ROBERT LEE, NYC
10/12/2011

Dear Dr. Farber, Dr. Jackowitz, the radiology techinicians/therapists receptionist. 

My brother, Robert Lee had a wonderful and caring experience at The Farber Center. He was recently diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus. He also had emphysema and COPD. Surgery was not possible due to the location of the mass. He needed radiation and Chemotherapy. 

The atmosphere was very pleasant, soothing and calming. Soft music was heard and the private changing/dressing rooms and waiting area were scented with candles prior to going into the treatment room. 

Amy, Andrew and Regina were very caring and compassionate during his treatments, they always asked about his well being. 

There was on incident when Robert could not receive treatment- he was coughing so much that he could not be still on the “table” and he was having difficulty breathing. Dr. Farber and Dr. Jackowitz were able to calm him down and get Robert to breath normally. It had never happened before. They made a report to Dr. Pon at the nursing home. 

Robert did not have any side effects from his radiation treatment, he felt fine. Hopefully the mass shrunk. 

The office Staff was especially nice and Vivian and Sammi were always pleasant and kind to us. They were very helpful with his problem with medical insurance and extremely supportive in helping us through it. They were so kind and compassionate to Robert. 

Everyone was caring and kind to him. Thank you for everything. We appreciate everything that you have done for him.  

Sincerely yours.
Anne Lee and Robert King Lee

VICTOR ZEINES, DDS, NYC
9/30/2011

So you have cancer and are looking for answers…What to do

You probably have the same feelings of fear and disbelief I had when I found out my biopsy was positive. How can that be??? I’m a holistic dentist!! I do all the right things and you know what??? It didn’t matter, my biopsy was positive.

The greatest problem I faced was deciding what to do. It seemed everyone I knew, had a friend that had cancer and their doctor was one step below God…getting incredible results…after the tenth story I realized I was completely overwhelmed and needed some real information.

The Internet…I found out many things about cancer and many places to go…but that wasn’t enough.

I started to treat myself nutritionally after all I write books on health. But I still needed some sort of conventional therapy. I went to Doctors that did surgery and radiation. They were great people but the treatments all had problems, such an impotence and incontinence, neither of which I wanted. As one of the surgeons said, “There is no free lunch here.” However there are options some of which are more acceptable then others. Further research led me to The Farber Center for Radiation Oncology. I met with the staff and found out two things at that first visit.

Dr. Farber and his staff are great!- very warm and very supportive. While all the other places I had gone to also had great staff, this was on a slightly different level. Much more personal.

The treatment is amazing!!! I went to see them already having scheduled surgery, thinking that would be the best of not great options. I have never been a fan of radiation feeling this could do a lot of damage. This was different instead of two beams they use many beams, each one having a lower amount of radiation so normal tissue is not harmed but the cancer is destroyed!

After meeting with them I canceled my surgery and began therapy the following week. The treatment was astounding!!! No pain no nothing! I almost felt that I never really was sick…no after effects just great care from a highly supportive staff.

I have been so pleased with my treatment and outcome that I hope to become part of their staff, helping people to enhance their immune system by removing mercury fillings and with nutritional support.  

Yours in Health,
Victor Zeines, DDS

VIRGINIA BURLIN, QUEENS
7/07/2011

Dr. Farber, Dr. Jackowitz, Vivian, Regina, Amy , Andrew.....

A Big Heart,
A Big Help....
A Big Thank You

I'm very grateful to be apart of The Farber Group. I appreciate your kindness and wonderful care. Everyone's smiles certainly help all patents requiring your wisdom and help. Dr. Farber knows I'll be back!!!  

Warmest Wishes,
Virgina Burlin

LEONARD TAPALOW, BROOKLYN
6/20/2011

The first time we visited The Farber Center for Radiation Oncology I knew this was the place for me. I was greeted by Vivian, who asked me and my wife if we'd like coffee or tea—Not the usual "what insurance do you have" or "that will be a $35 co pay"

After this friendly greeting it only got better, the entire facility is brand new, spotless, and extremely functional. 

Dr. Farber's staff was incredible at making me feel very comfortable and relaxed every time I returned for one of my 37 radiation treatments. 

Amy, Regina, and Andrew went out of their way to make me feel comfortable, escorting me to my own dressing room. Providing me with a plush cloth bathrobe and making sure  I felt at ease. Throughout my 7 plus weeks of treatment I never felt rushed or under pressure. 

Dr. Farber or Dr. Jackowitz were always there every Tuesday to examine me and make sure all my questions and concerns were answered. Whatever happens to the rest of my life we will always be extremely grateful for the help of The Farber Center. 

Charlotte and Leonard Tapolow

When I first walked into The Farber Center, it was obvious that the place is someone's dream come to life. The center and equipment are beautiful and new, the staff is kind, welcoming and knowledgable. 

I tend to gravitate towards the slightly grittier side of things, but decided that for this chapter of my life a little pampering was in order. I'm so glad I made that decision. It's — almost—a privilege to need your care. 

As a patient I was treated with respect, gentle compassion, professionalism, and a little humor. Laughter is a good accompaniment to a scary journey. 

Thank you for my life.  Marjorie

CURTIS BABB, ROSEDALE
5/26/2011

My Dear Dr. Farber,

On behalf of my husband, and me. I would like to thank you and all your staff for the professional way we were treated for the past nine weeks.

We were given two options for treatment, one was near our home, the other was The Farber Center. Your center was highly recommended. When we walked in the first day it was like walking into a spa. The room setting, the nice soft soothing music, the candles, and the fish tank helped to calm all fears.

The staff was very caring, and professional. Vivian is a gem, she treats everyone with warmth, and dignity.

We got to interact with other patients, and it felt like home away from home. I will highly recommend your center to anyone needing your service.

Thank you so much, Curtis and Norma Babb

MARINA HIGGINS, NEW YORK CITY
4/23/2011

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2010, I began a journey through the American healthcare process that was both frightening and frustrating. While most of the medical professionals I encountered were well-intended, I found that the traditional facilities available to breast cancer patients were sterile, impersonal and worst of all, disorganized.

I began my search for a radiation facility by speaking to my surgeon and then to other breast cancer survivors, some of whom were friends and colleagues. I was told to expect mediocre treatment, at best. The radiation therapy would be likely administered in a hospital where I would have to sit and wait, sometimes for hours. Even more startling, I was warned that the onus was on me to ensure I received my own prescription, rather than another patient’s because there were so many of us. A friend who had undergone her own battles with treatment a few years before, cautioned me to be especially vigilant and assertive if I wanted to receive any kind of quality care.

But somehow I got lucky: I discovered The Farber Center.

I could never have anticipated the beautifully designed treatment center; it was more like a spa than an impersonal medical facility. The staff at The Farber Center even accommodated my busy schedule so that I could continue to work throughout the radiation process.Every day, I had the benefit of coming to a place that was serene and immaculate; where I was greeted by name and always with a reassuring smile. My radiation oncologist, Dr. Spierer, was available at all times to speak to me, either in person or by phone. She answered questions directly and guided me through the entire process with compassion and empathy. I felt that every member of the Farber team seemed genuinely concerned about my well-being. And as strange as it may sound, I actually miss my daily interactions with the doctors and staff!

I cannot imagine a more supportive environment to help me through the most challenging episode of my life, and will always be grateful for the wonderful care I received. This experience has contributed to my recovery in no small way: The Farber Center gave me back perspective and helped renew my optimism and zeal for life. Thank you.

TED THOMPSON, NEW YORK CITY
4/19/2011

From the moment I stepped in through the door of The Farber Center I was made to feel that I was in the hands of a capable caring team where my welfare and well being would come first. This attitude of personal caring is reflected by every staff member of this comfortable up to date facility in downtown Manhattan. I would not hesitate to recommend The Farber Center to anyone in need of the best in radiation treatment. I was afraid but now feel confident. Thank you Farber Team!

Yours,

Ted Thompson

FRANCES BARBUTO, NEW YORK CITY
7/11/2010

From the time of my first appointment, I knew I had made the right decision to follow my surgeon's recommendation to work with Dr. Farber for MammoSite radiation. Dr. Farber's calm, professional manner put me at ease. His careful, detailed explanation of the MammoSite process and his willingness to provide complete, understandable answers to my questions helped me to feel that he was a partner with me in my recovery process. In addition, Dr. Farber worked well with my surgeon and oncologist. He communicated with each of them on the process of the treatment and all follow up visits. Dr. Farber's medical skill, coupled with his mastery of cutting edge technology combined to provide me with a targeted treatment plan that extended beyond the administration of the radiation. Dr. Farber's holistic approach of sound medical treatment, technological expertise, and ongoing current awareness activities regarding advances in cancer treatment as well as overall health and well being have had a significant, positive impact on my life.

MICHELLE LABOVE, NEW YORK CITY
7/11/2010

After being diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing surgery, I was faced with needing radiation treatments and Meeting a new doctor who I hoped would understand my fears. I was very impressed the first time I met Dr. Farber. I knew that I was in good hands. He was very professional but showed compassion and concern. I know that I wasn't the easiest patient, since I was very nervous and scared. I didn't know what to expect and had many fears but Dr. Farber always had time to see me and answer my questions. I always felt comfortable and I knew that the care I was getting was the best. I can't thank Dr. Farber enough for the way I was treated. My other doctors have commented on how well I have healed from the radiation. He changed an unpleasant situation into a positive outcome. I will always be grateful for his kindness.

NANCY PAPPAS, NEW YORK CITY
7/11/2010

Dr. Lauren Shaiova became one of the most important people in my family's life. My husband was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in April 2005. He already had massive lesions in his sacrum and ileum. Although we found a wonderful oncologist, he wasn't able to manage his pain. We followed his oncologist's advice and met with Dr. Shaiova. From that first day she gave us hope that he would be able to have some quality of life for whatever time he had left. And he did! Doctor Shaiova was able to manage his pain. She was always available to speak with us. I could email or call her if he was experiencing breakthrough pain and she would always get right back to me. As a caregiver, I knew that she would always be there for me. She treated him as if she were caring for a member of her own family. It was a truly difficult road for my family and me. We would not have been able to endure without her support. Her caring, guidance, patience, and friendship over those 5 years we treasure. When my husband entered hospice, she came to our house to see him and was on constant call to get us through those most difficult days. My husband died peacefully at home on December 25, 2009. It was largely through her efforts that he was able to die at home surrounded by his family. For that we will be eternally grateful. She showed my sons and me that there are still caring, loving professionals in this world. We will never forget her.

ROBIN EDWARDS, NEW YORK CITY
7/11/2010

My journey with Doctor Spierer began 5/5/06, after a referral was made to her office from my oncologist for a consultation request/examination. Just when you think you can not take anymore cancer treatment (chemo, diag. with breast cancer Dec.2005), and you may just want to give up and throw in the towel, raise the white flag, you hear Dr. Spierer's heels of her shoes walking down the hall "STRONG POWERFULL SOUND". The door knob turns, curtain is pushed backed and a big smile greets you. Dr. Spierer's smile alone reduced any and all anxiety about radiation treatment. After consultation with DR. Spierer I automatically knew she was the Dr. to see me through radiation treatment; 5-days a week, 6-8 weeks of treatment. Visits with Dr. Spierer once a week were "PRICELESS". The quality of care and treatment "PRICELESS". Dr. Spierer is not just a Dr. in a white coat, she goes above & beyond her profession. She is an extraordinary, genuine, nurturing and caring person. Dr. Spierer took the time to get to know me as a person & not just a patient (she saw me beyond the cancer), and called me personally when needed. Dr. Spierer sat down (not behind a desk) with me discussed a treatment plan for my specific needs and went through the process with me from beginning till…well there is no end…she is still there, uplifting, inspiring, & encouraging. Dr. Spierer's carefree spirit was always interested in what I was doing and or going through physically, mentally, personally, professionally and even educationally. Dr. Spierer was always there to cheer me on, and coach me through what ever it was I was going through. Gusty Girl is what she called me, which was the title of a book I was reading. Dr. Spierer always was an active listener, and she reminded me of the person who I was before a life with cancer and treatments. Dr. Spierer gave me a second chance and the ability to return to life. A life full of hope and joy. Radiation therapy with Dr. Spierer was not just follow up care it was a time of transition, adaptation, and the courage to face an uncertain future. I learned a new way of life, tips for life after treatment, and gained respect for radiation therapy. I once told Dr. Spierer that I would love to work with her because she defined morals, ethics, values and manners, of professionalism that makes her stand out as the unique person that she is, along with being the best dress doctor I have ever seen. Whether she was having a bad day or not you could not tell. She has never treated me any different from the very first day I met her.
Thanks Dr. Spierer I am forever grateful.

Robin Edwards

SANDRA DEL VECCHIO, NEW YORK CITY
7/11/2010

However long my visits were with Dr. Marnee Spierer, she always gave of herself to assist me in one form or another, whether it was answering all my medical questions or easing some of my fears or filling out some tedious paperwork I needed filled out. Dr. Spierer has a special way about her. When she walks into the room she is like a candle that sheds light in the dark. With that light, she provided me with encouragement, comfort and support. She was always concerned about me as a person. I had said to her on a few occasions that "I wanted to be her when I grew up". I admire her for her intelligence, charisma and most of all her down to earth persona. Her bed-side manners speak for themselves; they are impeccable. When we speak to one another I feel like I am speaking to one of my best friends, because I trust her wholeheartedly. When I leave her office I leave with a certain confidence that everything is going to be okay. She provides me with a sense of hope. I am grateful that God has given me the pleasure, the honor, and the opportunity to have met her and to have her as my Radiation Oncologist. She makes my visits so much more pleasurable.

CHRISTOPHER KENNY, NEW YORK CITY
7/11/2010

My name is Christopher Kenny. I am the proud father of Ryan 6 and Erik 5. My wife Erika met Dr. Spierer shortly after March 15th 2009. That day is significant because it is the day we were married and it is also our son Erik's birthday. Then it unfortunately became the day my wife was diagnosed with multiple brain tumors. Erika met Dr. Spierer first, and when I was going to meet her she said "you are going to love her". As usual, my wife was right. I liked Dr. Spierer's ways immediately. I sat NEXT to her while she showed me the awful pictures of my wife's brain. She explained everything to me in terms I could understand. I was scared to death. She walked me through the whole thing. I began talking to Dr. Spierer on a regular basis. Either by phone or by texting. A doctor this busy would send me texts like… "How's my favorite couple?" We were becoming very close. She became our doctor for everything. I was so comfortable asking her anything and texts were always flying back and forth. People thought I was lying about our relationship with her. Erika had several sessions of whole brain radiation and was very ill. We received excellent advice about how to keep her comfortable as much as we could. Treatments worked for a while until November when new tumors emerged. I was beside myself. I called Cancer Treatment Centers of America to see what they could do. I always saw their ads on TV. I knew my wife was not going to be cured and I wanted to make sure I could look my children in the eyes one day and tell them I did everything to help their mom. Dr. Spierer was so wonderful at talking to me on such a great level. I ran the idea by her and she told me to go and to call her for anything. The doctors at CTCA were going to try a procedure that could have maybe prolonged the inevitable. I asked if they would talk to our Radiation Oncologist before we talk anymore. They said ok. I took out my cellphone after office hours and called Dr. Spierer's cellphone. They were shocked that I had her cell number and on 2 rings had her on the phone. I gave a quick explanation to her, and she said "put the doctor on the phone". I was so excited. When we got back on the phone, once again she explained everything to me. We ended up leaving there without doing any treatment. We decided to just go home. 3 days later Erika was back in the hospital and again I was on the phone with Dr. Spierer. What a great lady. Erika had enough treatment. Dec 19, 2009, my wife died. I had to tell our children… the worst day of my life. The day of the funeral I was walking outside the Funeral Home and Dr. Spierer was getting out of a car. I simply said "I am not surprised to see you" and we embraced. She became more to us than a doctor. She genuinely cared for us. We knew it from the moment we met. It has been 6 months since Erika died and every once in a while I still connect with our favorite doctor. I will always be grateful. Ryan and Erik will know exactly the kind of woman who was trying to help their mom.

Gratefully,
Erika's Husband, Chris