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At age 58, Roberta (Bobbie) Ruskowski was vigilant about getting her routine screenings. This was the year for a regular mammogram and colonoscopy. With no family history of cancer, and after nursing eight children early in life, she never suspected a problem.
Shortly after her mammogram in early October, her doctor requested repeat imaging, which she quickly scheduled. The imaging in fact turned out to be concerning and she was able to get an expedited appointment the very next day for a biopsy.
Bobbie cleared her calendar and went for the biopsy, as ordered. Two days later, she received the shocking news that she had breast cancer.
She met with Dr. Anna Mazor, Breast Surgeon at Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, along with a team of oncologists, the reconstructive and plastic surgeon, nurse navigators, geneticists, lymphedema therapists, and others who would coordinate her care.
Bobbie appreciated how seamlessly her appointments were arranged, allowing her to meet with every physician on her care team in a single day. Every question was answered. Every concern was addressed. When she met with Dr. Sheen Jain, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology and Executive Director, Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson at Cooper, Bobbie felt certain that she was in capable hands.
From that first day, Bobbie felt an overwhelming sense of empathy and compassion, putting her at ease. Every doctor she met held her hands in comfort, encouraging her not to be fearful. There wasn't a doubt she'd be treated with respect and confidence throughout her healing journey.
With it being such an important life decision, Bobbie sought a second opinion. That experience felt much less personal and the proposed treatment plan just wasn’t sitting right with her.
Twenty days before Christmas, Bobbie returned home (same day) after a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. In addition to the support of her eight siblings, one being her twin sister, Bobbie also leaned on her eight children, her husband, her friends, her neighbors, and her community. Redeemer Health Home Care also arranged for a visiting nurse, which gave her added comfort when she needed it most.
Bobbie never looked back. Having undergone the double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery followed by chemotherapy, this allowed doctors to confirm five spots (instead of two, as originally suspected). Doctors were also able to tailor her chemotherapy and radiation treatments to target the exact types of tumors she had.
With so many family members close by at all different stages of life, Bobbie and her husband are blessed with endless opportunities for joyful family celebrations – none of which she wanted to miss.
Cancer wouldn’t get in her way. Bobbie’s nurse navigator was able to synchronize all of her appointments on the same day. And her medical oncologist planned her treatments so that she would be able to attend her son’s bridal shower in January and shortly after, make memories at his wedding in March. By June, while undergoing radiation therapy, Bobbie watched with pride as her youngest graduated high school and weeks later, went off to college.
“Faith over fear” remains Bobbie’s mantra, providing her with strength and clarity in every aspect of her life. Combined with the love and encouragement of everyone in her support system, this is what got her through. If she had pain, or felt her confidence wavering, she would go outside and get fresh air.
One night, her children surprised her by taking her out for a walk in the neighborhood. Within minutes, Bobbie felt an overwhelming sense of joy and emotion as they pointed out that her entire neighborhood was lit up in pink, including the church across the street, in support of her breast cancer recovery.
Bobbie finished her last immunotherapy treatment over one year ago. As she reflects on her experience, she can honestly say that she was grateful for every bit of care she received from Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson at Cooper. With her nurse navigator, radiation therapists, infusion nurses, and others by her side, she knew she would always get the attention, compassion, and hope she needed along the way.
At the recommendation of her care team, Bobbie remains committed to nurturing her emotional well-being, engaging in self-care practices offered by Redeemer Health to support her long-term healing, recovery, and survivorship.
Learn more about breast cancer services at Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper.
Authored by Sheena Jain, MD, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology and Executive Director, Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson at Cooper
Every statistic tells a story; the latest data from the American Cancer Society (ACS) is no different. According to the ACS’ Cancer Facts & Figures 2025, the risk of developing cancer varies considerably by age and by gender.
Below are a few observations, signaling a rise in cancer rates and other concerning trends among women:
Despite these findings, there continues to be significant advancements made in cancer care, contributing to an overall reduction in deaths. From 1991-2022, the overall cancer death rate declined 34%, preventing approximately 4.5 million deaths. This is in large part due to fewer people smoking, earlier detection with screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies, and advances in cancer treatment.
“There's no better time than now for women to take charge of their health,” according to Sheena Jain, MD, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology and Executive Director, Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. “With knowledge comes the power of prevention; and so, we must encourage our families and friends to understand the life-saving value of early detection and health screenings.”
Start by scheduling regular check-ups with your primary care provider and gynecologist. Be sure to go for yearly mammograms starting at age 40, and talk to your primary care provider about scheduling a colonoscopy.
“Knowing your family’s cancer history and meeting with a genetic counselor is also recommended; knowing your own risks helps you to make informed decisions. Adopting healthy habits can also play a significant role in supporting your overall wellness,” continues Dr. Jain.
Regular check-ups make sure that women stay on track with important screenings like mammograms and Pap smears. These visits also help detect changes in your body, often before symptoms appear, when treatment works best. Vaccinations such as the HPV vaccine add another layer of protection by targeting preventable cancer risks and can help prevent certain cancers like cervical cancer or head and neck cancer.
Staying informed, keeping up with routine exams, and openly discussing concerns with your health care provider allows you to prioritize your well-being and safeguard your overall health.
Visit the following ACS website links to learn more about the cancers increasingly affecting women:
Call our Information and Physician Referral Service at 1-800-818-4747 or visit the links below to find a Redeemer Health specialist:
Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper takes a multi-disciplinary disease-site specific approach to cancer care, where experts work together to provide each patient with personalized care from diagnosis to treatment, recovery and beyond. To learn more call 215-938-3555 or visit RedeemerHealth.org/MDAndersonatCooper
As Medical Director of Radiation Oncology and Executive Director, Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson at Cooper, Dr. Sheena Jain works closely with a team of radiologists, pathologists, medical oncologists, surgeons, and other professionals to provide personalized, compassionate care and support to patients. Dr. Jain earned her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed residency training in radiation oncology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She is board certified in radiation oncology.
Meadowbrook, PA, March 2025 – Zachary S. Delis, DO, MS, a primary care sports medicine physician specializing in nonoperative orthopedics, joined the Redeemer Health medical staff. He provides musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging and interprets results, performs ultrasound-guided procedures, and provides orthobiologic injections such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and viscosupplementation to treat musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. His personalized treatment plans typically incorporate guided physical therapy to help deliver the best possible outcomes.
Dr. Delis sees patients at 888 Fox Chase Rd., Rockledge, and at 1468 Old York Rd., Abington. Patients and physicians can reach him at 215-745-4050. His bio can be read here.
Patient education is a priority for Dr. Delis. He makes sure his patients leave visits with a solid knowledge of their underlying diagnosis, contributing factors that may play a part in their symptoms, treatment plans for both short- and long-term management, and any contingency plans necessary. Dr. Delis enjoys guiding patients through their recovery process and is especially gratified when they return to their previous level of function. His goal is to help his patients keep doing the things they want to do for as long as possible.
Dr. Delis graduated cum laude with degrees in neuroscience and anthropology from Tulane University, also earning a master’s degree in neuroscience. He completed his medical school training at Western University of Health Sciences – College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, California. He then completed a residency in family medicine at Louisiana State University in New Orleans, where he was elected co-chief resident in his second year and chief resident in his third year. Dr. Delis went on to serve a fellowship in primary care sports medicine at Temple University, where he was team physician for all 19 of the school’s NCAA Division I sports programs.
His lifelong love for sports began on the baseball, football and rugby fields of his hometown, Gloucester, Mass. Now he enjoys playing guitar and bass, going to the gym, watching sports and traveling. He and his wife are also avid foodies who like to explore new restaurants.
Philadelphia, PA – The WSFS CARES Foundation awarded Drueding Center, a non-profit organization that is a community service of Redeemer Health, a generous grant of $15,000. This funding will support the center’s efforts to provide sustainable and impactful services for families experiencing homelessness.
“Our programs address the aftermath of trauma, providing families with the tools they need to move forward, attain permanent housing, and achieve long-term stability,” said Anne Marie Collins, Vice President/Executive Director of the Drueding Center. “We are honored to receive this support from the WSFS CARES Foundation and thrilled to advance our work in bringing hope and opportunities to vulnerable families.”
The WSFS CARES Foundation selected Drueding Center as a recipient for its alignment with the foundation's mission to fund initiatives that are focused on creating lasting community impact. The foundation prioritizes investments in affordable housing, education, workforce development, and services for those in need. Drueding Center’s work reflects these priorities by not only addressing immediate housing needs but also building long-term success for families through holistic support and skill development.
Founded in 1987 by the Sisters of the Redeemer, Drueding Center has been a lifeline for families in Philadelphia, helping them overcome homelessness and achieve stability. The center develops personalized housing plans, collaborates with families to heal from trauma, and provides long-term support like goal setting and life skills coaching. Families receive access to job training, education, and legal assistance, while children grow in a nurturing on-site child care program. Additionally, the center’s Green Light Food Pantry helps families combat food insecurity by providing nutritious meals and fostering healthy eating habits.
For more information about Drueding Center and its programs, please visit druedingcenter.org.
Meadowbrook, PA, April 2025 – Redeemer Health’s Millennium OB/GYN practice, with locations in Philadelphia and Richboro, is pleased to welcome aboard Lee Halpern, MD. Dr. Halpern provides general OB/GYN care, including office visits, deliveries, circumcisions, and treatment of endometriosis and fibroids, as well as pre-pregnancy care and reproductive health. She also specializes in minor and major gynecologic surgery, with a focus on minimally invasive procedures.
After earning her medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine, Dr. Halpern completed an OB/GYN residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center. She is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Dr. Halpern has been a fitness instructor for almost 30 years, and enjoys playing piano.
The Millennium OB/GYN practice provides care to women from young adulthood and beyond. As a Redeemer Health physician practice, doctors and their patients have access to a full-service hospital with a maternity center that houses one of the area’s most advanced neonatal intensive care units. They also provide routine gynecological exams and tests, treatment of gynecological disorders, and menopause management. The Philadelphia office, at 9807 Bustleton Ave., and the Richboro office, at 910 2nd Street Pike, can both be reached at 215-676-2200.
Read more about Dr. Helpern here, and the Millennium OB/GYN practice here.
By Michelle Moylan, RD, LDN at Redeemer Health
With the new year comes the chance for a fresh start – an opportunity to set meaningful goals for a brighter, healthier you. While many resolutions focus on eating better, why not take it a step further? Adding vibrant, nourishing foods to your plate not only gives you needed energy, but it can also work wonders for your overall health.
Inflammation can act as a natural defense against infections, but prolonged inflammation can become problematic, harming healthy cells and tissues and potentially leading to other more significant health problems. That’s where the power of anti-inflammatory foods comes in. Nutrient-packed foods not only help strengthen your immune system, but they can also boost the diversity of beneficial gut bacteria and even stabilize your blood sugar.
Refined carbohydrates, fried foods, sweetened beverages, and processed meats can be pro-inflammatory and increase your risk of poor health. Instead, consider the following healthier alternatives:
Below are some creative ways to add anti-inflammatory foods to your diet:
Planning a weekly menu with anti-inflammatory foods can require extra effort, especially for those with food allergies or intolerances. It may help to work with a professional.
Redeemer Health’s registered dietitian nutritionists can help. They’ll review your medical history and help you get started on the journey to a more nutritious you! To make an appointment, call our Central Scheduling line at 215-938-5700.
About the Author: Michelle Moylan is a Registered Dietitian and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist at Redeemer Health. She is dedicated to helping individuals achieve better health through personalized nutrition plans, with a focus on making healthy eating simple and practical, and creating lasting habits that fit with each person’s individual lifestyle.
References:
Pictured Above: Holy Redeemer Hospital NICU alumni Rex and Dylan helped the Superhero Project Foundation donate $42.5K.
MEADOWBROOK, PA ― December 2024 ― Redeemer Health’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has been the recipient of a lot of love in 2024. Donations from grateful NICU families, thoughtful community members, and substantial grant opportunities, have enabled the unit to up its game in caring for our tiniest patients.
Redeemer Health's Health & Fitness Center invites fitness enthusiasts of all ages and levels to take advantage of our three-month introductory membership for only $99. Many insurances offer fitness benefits. Contact your insurance provider for coverage information.
The monthly membership fee includes:
Our Exercise Physiologists are always available to assist with equipment. For those who want even more support, our highly qualified physiologists offer training options for clients who want to focus on attaining specific health goals. Personal training is available for those who want it, for an additional fee.
The Redeemer Health Fitness Center is currently open the following hours:
To join the fun at our Health & Fitness Center or to request more information, call 215-938-5710.
MEADOWBROOK, PA – OCTOBER 2024 – The Regional Coalition to Eliminate Race-Based Medicine announced this month that all its member health systems have transitioned away from race adjustments in clinical decision support tools that help guide lung, kidney, and OB-GYN care. Redeemer Health has participated in the coalition since early 2023.
"Outdated beliefs about biological differences between races have for many years been embedded in decision support tools used in the practice of medicine. The Regional Coalition is working aggressively to change these tools to make them race neutral. We are extremely appreciative of the health systems that have committed to eliminating these inappropriate race-based adjustments," said Dr. Seun Ross, coordinator of the Regional Coalition. "The work that each health system has done is already leading to improved outcomes in our region and over time will save and extend lives."
For example, the hospitals and health systems in the region adopted a change in the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate or eGFR (the kidney function test) calculation that has helped over 721 patients move onto and up on the kidney transplant list. As a result, 63 of those patients received a kidney transplant during 2023.
The group has also advocated to remove race from the Kidney Donor Risk Index, a formula used by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network to assess donor kidney quality. These are the first milestones for the Regional Coalition, and it helps ensure that residents in the Philadelphia area are being assessed with the most appropriate and evidence-based clinical decision tools.
In addition to the kidney function test, the tools the Regional Coalition addressed and are now race-neutral, include spirometry (a lung function test), the vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) calculator, and race-based gestational anemia guidelines.
"Reducing disparity and inequity in health care is key to helping humans flourish as a people, which is the heart of our mission to care, comfort and heal," said Joshua M. Jenkins, Redeemer Health's Vice President of Mission Integration and Pastoral Care. "We are proud that our health care ministry contributes to this important work."
Click here to learn more about the Regional Coalition’s work.
MEADOWBROOK, PA – OCTOBER 2024 – Redeemer Health’s Home Health and Hospice operations headquartered in Egg Harbor and Elizabeth, New Jersey, are now owned and operated by BAYADA Home Health Care, a national, not-for-profit home health leader with a strong presence in New Jersey.
BAYADA will now serve Redeemer home health and hospice clients in those two New Jersey communities. The acquisition, which was approved by New Jersey regulatory bodies, allows BAYADA to combine the talented Redeemer Health workforce with BAYADA’s best- in-class operations, to continue to make a significant impact on the local communities.
Redeemer Health’s Home Care and Hospice South, headquartered in Runnemede, N.J., and Home Care and Hospice PA, were not part of this transaction. Also unaffected by the transaction are the food pantry and Healthy Families program, both located in Cape May, N.J.
BAYADA is headquartered in the Philadelphia region and provides nursing, rehabilitative, therapeutic, hospice and assistive care services to children, adults and seniors in the comfort of their homes.