Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University - Supportive Oncology
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Support and Services > Supportive Care

The strain of living with cancer can be overwhelming; many patients and their families need help coping with the various challenges. The Supportive Care Program provides emotional and practical support for patients and their families during all stages of treatment and recovery. Our supportive health care team is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome, listening and responding to patient concerns, promoting well-being and treating each individual with respect and compassion. Our services include:

Clinical Psychologists:
Clinical Psychologists work with patients and family members to manage the stress, sadness, anger and fatigue that can often accompany cancer.
  • Lynne Wagner, PhD - 312.695.0990
  • Stacy Sanford, PhD - 312.695.0990
Social Workers:
Social workers assist patients and their families in coping with the practical and financial impact of cancer, and can provide referrals.
  • Mary Jo Graden, LCSW (Women's Cancers) - 312.695.8177
  • Kristen Huber, MSW, LCSW (Radiation Oncology) - 312.926.4884
  • Mio Nomura, LSW (Hematological, Surgical Oncology) - 312.695.0766
  • Ish Orkar, LSW (Brain & Neurologic Oncology) - 312.695.2328
  • Fertility Preservation – 312.926.1316
Health Learning Center Satellite Coordinator / Medical Librarian
The Health Learning Center Satellite Coordinator provides personalized assistance to patients and families seeking information on diagnosis, treatment options, support groups and clinical trials, and offers appropriate referrals to other information sources. Computers are available for patient and family use. Trusted sources of print and online information provide guidance and insight.
  • Mary Pranica - 312.926.7377 or the Health Learning Center Satellite, 21st floor of Galter Pavilion
Nutrition Services
Health eating is important for everyone, but some people with cancer have special concerns. Registered Dieticians provide up-to-date research-based nutrition advice throughout cancer treatment and into recovery.
  • Katie Marquardt, MS, RD, LD - 312.695.2423
  • Melissa Roch, RD, LDN - 312.695.2423
American Cancer Society Patient Navigator
The Patient Navigator Service is a partnership between Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Health Learning Center and the American Cancer Society. This service provides cancer patients and their families with counseling as well as information and support. The Patient Navigator can also assist with transportation and lodging during all phases of your diagnosis and treatment.
  • Mary Weiss, MSW, LCSW (Hematological, Surgical Oncology) - 312.926.4282
  • Katie Wilson, LCSW (Women's Cancers) - 312.472.3837
Financial Services
Financial counselors are available to help with billing concerns and reimbursement issues, as well as enrollment in financial assistance and free medication programs. To talk to a financial counselor, call 312.695.0990
Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University
National Cancer Institute home page National Comprehensive Cancer Network home page