Shining a New Light on Brain Surgery
John Y.K. Lee, MD, MSCE, medical director of the Gamma Knife Center at PAH and clinical director of the Center for Precision Surgery, was recently recognized by the American Association for Cancer Research, earning the Early Career Investigator Award and a $50,000 grant to support his research.
Lee has co-led the effort to expand the use of the pioneering TumorGlow® technology developed by Sunil Singhal, MD. TumorGlow® utilizes a fluorescent dye and near-infrared imaging to illuminate tumors so physicians can distinguish between healthy and cancerous tissue. Originally used to treat lung cancer, Lee has adopted the technique as a minimally invasive method to remove brain tumors. And this is just the beginning.
“With this grant, we’ll continue optimizing our techniques. We’re excited to investigate new fluorescent agents and longer wavelengths that could penetrate further into tissue,” Lee said. “My goal is to use this existing tool in novel ways that will help us improve detection, resect tumors more precisely, prevent recurrence, and improve patient outcomes.”
Honoring a Talented, Thoughtful Leader
In just over two years as senior practice manager for Neurology, Caitlin Smith has improved everything from the department’s accountability to its aesthetics, making it no surprise that she was named 2019 CPUP Manager of the Year.
Smith — described by Michael Kalfin, MPH, director of Operations for Neurology, as a “devoted” leader and “a stabilizing force” — typically shies away from the spotlight. Still, she admits that she’s proud of the ways in which she has collaborated with leadership to drive process improvements, empowered her team to talk about challenges and develop solutions, and ensured that every staff member prioritizes the patient experience.
“Compassion is the foundation of our work, and I encourage our team to remember that every day,” Smith said. “It can get hectic scheduling and rescheduling, improving our practices, and jumping in wherever I’m needed. But seeing a patient’s gratitude when they realize they’re finally going to get the care they’ve been searching for.... That’s why I love what I do.”
Celebrating 39 Years of Service
When he wasn’t offering a warm welcome and his bright smile at the security desk, Barry Ogburn, PAH’s longtime audio visual security liaison, could often be found heading to events with his camera in hand. But in November, PAH said a bittersweet farewell to Ogburn after 39 dedicated years on the security team.
It was no surprise when staff from every department made sure to share hugs, hand-shakes, and well-wishes for the future during his retirement celebration. Though he donned a ribbon proclaiming he was, “Officially Retired: Off the Clock!” he was full of assurances that he wouldn’t be a stranger.
“Barry was our unofficial mayor. He knew everyone and was always willing to offer a helping hand,” said Chief Human Resources Officer Christine Tierney, RN, MSN, SPHR. “As our photographer, he literally was the person capturing our history. He knew us all so well, and he could always grab that perfect shot. He was a wonderful asset to Pennsy, and he will be missed.”