NCI Cancer Center designation
The family of Vicki Riedel (center), a fund-raiser for the Winship Cancer Institute, had its own struggle with cancer 19 years ago.
NCI Cancer Center designation
When Ansley Riedel (right) was diagnosed with a deadly form of leukemia as a young child, her family began what they describe as “an amazing treatment journey.” At a time when bone marrow transplants were still relatively rare, they traveled across the country from Atlanta to Seattle to get the best possible care for Ansley. A bone marrow transplant worked—with the help of little brother Joseph (left)—and today Ansley is a college student with plans to become an oncology nurse.
If she were diagnosed today, Ansley Riedel would be able to get that quality care in her hometown at Emory’s Winship Cancer Institute. This April, Winship received validation of its growth by earning coveted designation as a National Cancer Institute Cancer Center. It is the first medical facility in Georgia to do so.
The designation will benefit patients through increased access to new clinical trials and technologies available only through NCI-designated cancer centers. During the next three years, Winship will receive almost $4.3 million to grow its scientific research base. The research component sits at the core of other support activities for cancer patients and families such as clinical care, supporting services, and education.
Established in 1937 with a gift from Coca Cola CEO Robert Woodruff, Winship has now made good on Woodruff’s vision that no one should have to leave Georgia to receive excellent cancer care.
