Patient Stories - Alliance Cancer Specialists

Dawn

In March 2022, Dawn faced the daunting news that she had both Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). “I was overwhelmed with fear and anger,” she recalls, “but I knew I had to take action.” After consulting with Dr. Aithal at Alliance Cancer Specialists, Dawn found the confidence and care she needed. “Dr. Aithal walked me through every step, explaining everything to my family and me, and the nurses were amazing. They distracted me with laughter and gave me the strength to keep going when I felt like I couldn’t.”

Dawn’s treatment was far from easy due to her dual diagnosis. She had to adjust to a slower, more manageable chemotherapy plan. “My body couldn’t handle standard treatment, but Dr. Sramila Aithal and the team made sure I got through it. Their support was incredible.”
Now two and a half years cancer-free, Dawn has a new outlook on life. “My faith and family carried me through the hardest times. I wake up every day thankful for another chance.”
She stresses the importance of early detection: “Always go for your mammograms—they can save your life. If you feel something, don’t wait. It’s better to be told it’s nothing than to hear the word ‘cancer.'”

Dawn’s journey is one of courage, faith, and hope. “You’re never alone in this fight. Rely on your faith, family, and friends, and remember, you have the strength to push through.

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Dawn!

Bobby

“In May 2017, an ultrasound revealed a 12-centimeter mass on my right kidney. By June, on my 50th birthday, I had my kidney removed, and the tumor was confirmed as renal clear cell carcinoma. With the tumor encapsulated, I was optimistic about moving forward, monitoring with regular scans.
In the fall of 2020, an MRI showed growth on my left adrenal gland, with cancer spreading to lymph nodes near my lungs, chest, abdomen, and pelvis. That’s when I was referred to Dr. Mitchell Alden at Alliance Cancer Specialists – a decision I truly believe saved my life. We began a treatment plan combining chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Over the next few years, through ups and downs, scans showed progress. By July 2024, I completed treatment with stable results and am now in a monitoring phase.

Words can’t fully express my gratitude for Dr. Alden and the amazing team at the Doylestown Alliance Cancer office. Their expertise and care carried me through the hardest chapter of my life. Dr. Alden took the time to explain every step and truly cared about my physical and mental well-being. To the entire Doylestown team: Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your incredible work makes all the difference.” – Bobby H, Patient

Kim

Kim When Kim was diagnosed with stage 4 serous carcinoma ovarian cancer on August 9, 2022, she was hospitalized at St. Mary’s—an overwhelming start to a life-changing journey. But from the very beginning, one constant stood out: her connection with Dr. Krista Isaac. “She’s been more than just my oncologist,” Kim said. “She’s been a constant source of comfort, someone who listens to my fears, answers every question, and truly looks out for me.”

After undergoing initial chemotherapy and a full hysterectomy, Kim began maintenance treatment with Lynparza and Avastin. But within months, the cancer progressed. That’s when Dr. Isaac, working closely with Dr. Marcus from Penn Medicine, began exploring clinical trials. “In any patient with advanced, recurrent cancer I consider if there is a clinical trial option available,” Dr. Isaac said. “This allows a patient to potentially receive a more promising treatment than what I have available as standard of care.” Kim felt their commitment and it made all the difference. “Dr. Marcus and Dr. Isaac are always in contact and truly collaborative,” Kim explained. “I really felt like they were doing everything they could to find the next right step for me.”

In January 2024, Kim enrolled in her first clinical trial with Alliance: Azenosertib. It was a pill she took five days on, two days off. Before starting, she met with Lindsay Klein, the clinical research nurse who supports patients throughout the trial process. “Lindsay walked me through everything—paperwork, logistics, all my questions and concerns,” Kim said. “Of course I was anxious—how would I feel, would it work—but I trust Dr. Isaac.” The trust and respected was recieved on both ends. “Kim is a great clinical trial patient,” Dr. Isaac said. “She is relatively asymptomatic and has tolerated her prior treatments without many side effects.” Kim stayed on Azenosertib for eight months—her longest stretch without progression. When the cancer eventually progressed again, Kim prepared to start a
new chemotherapy combination. But just a week before treatment, she got a call from Dr. Isaac: Kim was eligible for another clinical trial, this time for Rina-S—an infusion given every three weeks that had been showing promise. She started the Rina-S trial in January 2025. Her first scan showed stable disease. Her CA-125 tumor marker, which was 303, dropped to 68. Anything below 35 is considered a healthy range.
And after her fourth infusion, a scan on April 1st brought more good news: all lesions had decreased in size, some significantly, and no new cancer had appeared. Her CA-125 continued to drop, landing at 47.7. “It’s still a little above normal,” Kim said, “but considering where I started, it’s a huge improvement.”
While the process of joining a trial can be overwhelming with scans, EKGs, bloodwork, and paperwork—Kim credits Lindsay for making it manageable. “She sets up everything, checks in constantly, and if any billing confusion arises, she handles it.” “Communication is key,” Dr. Isaac added. “My research coordinator contacts our trial patients on a regular basis, and patients have a separate number to call with any questions or issues.”

The support Kim has received from the entire Alliance team has made a lasting impression. “Everyone from the front desk, to the lab, to the infusion room treats you with kindness. They answer your questions and help lift some of the weight you carry as a cancer patient.” There have been practical benefits too. “Everything related to the trial has been covered like medications, scans, even drugs for side effects. When cancer already brings so much stress, that kind of support makes a big difference.” Kim shared. “Some patients at times find enrolling on a trial overwhelming due to the extra labs or testing needed,” Dr. Isaac acknowledged. “But I would strongly encourage patients to consider enrollment if their physician feels it is a good fit. We’ve developed a robust clinical trial program at Alliance through our relationship with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute.”

“I’ve seen firsthand the potential they hold,” Kim said. “Someone has to help move research forward—why not me?”

Her advice to others considering a trial? “Get informed. Ask every question. Talk with your care team and your loved ones. For me, deciding to do the second trial first meant I still had chemo as a backup. It gave me options, and that matters when you’re living with cancer.”

Today, Kim’s gratitude runs deep—for her care team, for the opportunities clinical research has brought, and for the community she’s found through advocacy. She and her family have participated in the Together in Teal walk/run for three years, raising more than $10,000 for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.
“We do it not just for me,” Kim said, “but for everyone facing this diagnosis. I’m incredibly thankful to be part of something that could help others down the line too.”

– Kim, Patient

Sabrina

Sabrina with Alliance employees

Sabrina Escaleira, a Kindergarten teacher at McDonald Elementary, drew inspiration from her mother Ana’s cancer journey, which began in April 2011 under Dr. Reilly’s care at our Langhorne office. Witnessing her mother’s resilience during chemotherapy motivated Sabrina to launch a schoolwide project.

The “Get Well Bags” initiative engaged students from Centennial School District in Warminster, PA. Students contributed by assembling the bags, selecting items, crafting cards, and decorating them. Through the collective efforts of the school community, 200 bags were prepared for patients at Alliance Cancer Specialists, thanks to generous donations from McDonald Elementary.

Sabrina's Get Well Bags

Leo

photo of Leo

Meet Leo Botta. He is the co-founder of Grammy’s Gifts, an organization that is committed to providing cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments with little goody bags of comfort.

Leo’s wife, Tricia, was a patient at Alliance Cancer Specialists. When she saw how many others couldn’t afford hats or jackets, she started bringing these things in to help. Tricia sadly passed away in June of 2018, and Leo has kept her mission alive.

These gift bags contain snacks, lotion, eyebrow tattoos, chapstick, socks and crochet hats made with love from friends, families and neighbors.

https://www.grammysgifts.org/

Stacy

Stacy and husband with certificate and bell

Stacy was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in May of 2022 when she was referred to Dr. Chasky at our Bensalem office. After chemotherapy and surgery, Stacy was in remission by November 2022. Three months later in February of 2023, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. With this diagnosis, she needed radiation.

“I knew I wanted to continue receiving treatment at Alliance due to the amazing care I received already during my first diagnosis.” Stacy began receiving care from our Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Chang.

“Dr. Chang and the Red Lion Team are so supportive and made me feel comfortable. They took the time to answer questions, I never felt rushed. They walked me through the whole process and what it would be like. I always knew what to expect. That calmed my fears. I was immediately comfortable at Alliance. They genuinely care about their patients and are highly skilled.”

“If I could offer a piece of advice to those just beginning this journey..taking one day at a time and not thinking too far ahead is what helped me after my diagnosis. It was important for me to keep a positive attitude. Receiving a cancer diagnosis made me feel out of control. I had to calm my uncertainty and fears by focusing on what I can control in the present moment, (diet, exercise, treatment options, my attitude etc.) It is easier said than done. Especially when access to the internet allows you to research everything which increases my worry and fears. It is best to only use the internet as a tool with a greater focus on consulting with your doctor when you have questions.

Once I realized that worrying could not change my diagnosis or my outcome, I was able to focus on the present. That is how I found peace. Staying hydrated is important. I would often receive fluids in between chemo treatments which helped me feel better. The best decision I made was choosing Alliance Cancer Specialists for all my treatment needs.”

Thank you for sharing your Alliance experience, Stacy! We wish you continued health on your journey.

David

David with his art “After being diagnosed with Anemia in December 2023, I struggled to find a physician who took my concerns seriously until I met Dr. Lebovic at Alliance. From day one, Dr. Lebovic prioritized my health, initiating proper treatment like iron infusions. His personalized approach and the supportive atmosphere at Alliance made me feel valued and cared for and thanks to their expertise and compassion, my health has significantly improved. Dr. Lebovic took the time and effort to connect with me on a personal level by showing interest in my artwork, which means so much to me. At Alliance Cancer Specialists, every patient is treated as a unique individual, not just a number on a chart.”

– David A. Karasow, Patient and Artist

Lisa

Lisa's patient story

For over a decade, Lisa Sucharski has been on a remarkable journey with Alliance Cancer Specialists at Lankenau Hospital, guided by the expert care of Dr. Zonera Ali and her dedicated team. Lisa’s story is not just about battling cancer but about resilience, support, and the profound impact of personalized care.

Lisa’s journey began unexpectedly in her early twenties when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 Triple Positive Breast Cancer in 2014. Despite the initial shock, she found solace at Alliance Cancer Specialists, as Dr. Ali crafted a personalized treatment plan that propelled Lisa into remission shortly after her diagnosis.

Yet another pivotal moment in Lisa’s life occurred when she received a re-diagnosis of Stage 4 cancer in 2016. Yet, amidst the challenges, Lisa found a beacon of hope in the compassionate care of Alliance Cancer Specialists. Dr. Ali’s willingness to listen and address Lisa’s concerns, even during unplanned phone calls, exemplifies the patient-centered approach that defines Alliance Cancer Specialists. Lisa expressed, “when the questions started to come hard and fast, Dr. Ali took my phone call in the middle of the day and talked me through every concern. There have been many unplanned phone calls from me to Dr. Ali’s phone and it is never long before she answers the call with ‘how are you, darling?’ That level of care and “learning together” has been a great grounding force.

Lisa recalled a moment in her journey, “on what was my ‘last treatment’ in my first go-around, I came into my appointment to find rose petals guiding me to my favorite chair that was also covered in petals. That is a core memory I will never lose.” Small but significant acts of kindness created an environment where Lisa felt not just supported, but more importantly, cherished. “That sense of still being treated as a ‘person’ and not just a ‘patient’ has been so pivotal to me and my sense of identity while navigating my life with cancer.”

Dr. Ali views Lisa’s journey as a testament to the advancements in cancer care and the power of personalized treatment plans. “We are moving away from general treatment to more personalized and targeted treatments that focus on the genes responsible for the cancer. At Alliance, we have a variety of clinical trials that are a driving force in making patients live longer while also improving their quality of life.”

Originally drawn to the study of Oncology due to the unique relationship between the patient and the Oncologist, Dr. Ali’s relationship with Lisa is the perfect example of why she continues to provide the care she does. “Every interaction with Lisa is a pleasant one. She is always so full of energy and is smiling. Lisa volunteers to talk to young patients undergoing treatment and fills them with hope.” She shares, “Lisa’s resilience and courage serve as a source of inspiration, both for her care team and fellow patients, as she generously volunteers to help others facing similar battles.”

In Lisa’s ongoing fight against cancer, Alliance Cancer Specialists serves as her steadfast ally. She stresses the significance of seeking a healthcare provider who prioritizes patient well-being above all else and urges others on similar paths not to compromise on feeling heard and respected by their oncologist and care team. Alliance feels privileged to have played a crucial role in Lisa’s narrative.

Vicki

Vicki with Kindness Bags Vicki was a patient of Dr. Lebovic in 2014-15. She was diagnosed with bladder cancer, kidney cancer, and stage 4 lung cancer due to metastasis. At the time, St. Mary’s didn’t have trial medications, and chemotherapy wasn’t effective for her lungs. Dr. Lebovic tirelessly researched hospitals and trials, finding a promising one at Penn’s Perelman Center, where Vicki was accepted into the program. Due to her experience, she brought “Kindness Bags” into existence.

“Dr. Lebovic saved my life. I’ve been in remission for seven years, allowing me to see my children grow up, return to teaching Pre-K, and cherish time with my family and husband. God is so good!” She told us, “having experienced the hardships of treatment, I always wanted to give back. The kindness bags initiative aims to show patients they are special and loved. The heartfelt thank-yous I’ve received from patients bring tears to my eyes.”

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parishioners and Youth Group in Southampton, PA, donate items for the kindness bags. These bags include candy treats, granola bars, cookies, pretzels, chips, peanut butter crackers, mints, hard candy, popcorn, small water bottles, chapstick, hand sanitizer, and more. They have donated 150 bags to Alliance Cancer Specialists and another 150 to other treatment centers.

“This is our third year of kindness bags and OLGC Youth Group also engages in various service projects. We make over 1,000 PB&J sandwiches for the homeless, create 300 Halloween bags for needy students, donate school supplies, provide over 300 turkeys with fixings to families in need, bake goods for nursing homes, and prepare 100 meals for the sick and homebound. Wherever there’s a need, we strive to make a difference!”

Vicki is a true inspiration to all – we are so honored to have been trusted with her care during her journey and the impact she leaves on others. Thank you, Vicki!

Together, we can find strength in shared experiences and inspire one another.