Lee Health Cancer Institute

09/05/2025

“He treated me as more than a patient, like a family member.”

When Tim Onzo learned he had bile duct cancer, his world turned upside down. Thanks to early detection and the expertise of Surgical Oncologist Dr. Mark Bloomston, he was able to have surgery that removed 60% of his liver and gave him a second chance at life.

The road to recovery wasn’t easy. Tim faced serious complications and moments when he wanted to give up, but Dr. Bloomston never stopped showing up, visiting him daily and reminding him he wasn’t alone.

Today, Tim is cancer free and cherishing every moment with his grandchildren. 🙏

09/03/2025

What does 1,500 mean? For our community, it means hope.

At the Lee Health Cancer Institute, Dr. Shyam Kapadia and the team of pulmonologists have completed more than 1,500 Ion Navigational Bronchoscopies, a milestone that represents so much more than a number.

Each procedure carries a ripple effect: earlier answers, faster treatment, and brighter tomorrows for patients and families facing lung cancer.

This achievement reflects our promise to bring cutting-edge technology and compassionate care together so every person in Southwest Florida has access to the tools that can change their story. 💙

09/02/2025

Please join us in congratulating Jenna Zvolensky, PF, OT, CLT Cancer Rehab Navigator at the Lee Health Cancer Institute on achieving credentialing as an Oncology Rehabilitation Specialist through the PORi (Physiological Oncology Rehabilitation Institute)!

This prestigious certification recognizes Jenna’s advanced expertise in helping patients navigate their cancer journey with personalized rehabilitation support, improving quality of life, function, and recovery. 💙

Her dedication reflects our mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and innovative care for every patient we serve.

Way to go, Jenna! We’re proud to have you on our team at the Lee Health Cancer Institute!

09/01/2025

Happy Labor Day!

This Labor Day, we’re proud to celebrate the strength and resilience of the people who make Southwest Florida such a special place to call home. 💙

From our healthcare heroes to the countless workers across our community, today is for you. Wishing everyone a safe and relaxing holiday!

08/28/2025

Ever wonder what it’s like on filming days? 🎥

Take a sneak peek into our time with the Lee Health Cancer Institute at the Regional Cancer Center, where we sat down with our dedicated surgeons to learn more about their work and passion for caring for our community here in Southwest Florida. 💙

08/15/2025

We’re proud to share an exciting advancement in prostate cancer care at the Lee Health Cancer Institute as we recently performed the first High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) procedure at Gulf Coast Medical Center, using our newly acquired robotic platform.

This marks a major milestone in expanding our non-invasive treatment capabilities and it’s just the beginning. Several more cases are already scheduled, highlighting the demand for this innovative option.

What is HIFU?
-High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound is a leading-edge treatment for localized prostate cancer.
-It uses targeted sound waves to destroy cancerous tissue without any surgical incisions.
-Performed on an outpatient basis with minimal recovery time.

What Are The Key Benefits:
-No surgery, no incisions
-Minimal risk of incontinence or erectile dysfunction
-Preserves surrounding healthy tissue
-May eliminate the need for radiation
-Protects sexual and urinary function

This is a significant step forward in providing precise, personalized care for prostate cancer patients in Southwest Florida. We’re excited to continue offering new, minimally invasive options that improve outcomes and quality of life.

08/14/2025

We are proud to showcase the opening of our Cancer Support Community at the Regional Cancer Center. This space is free and open to anyone affected by cancer, whether you’re in treatment, a survivor/thriver, or a family member or caregiver.

Here, you’ll find:
-Weekly support groups
-Educational presentations led by healthcare professionals
-Healthy lifestyle workshops (nutrition, exercise)
-Social events like art, crafts, music, and games
-Access to valuable resources

Our mission is to provide a welcoming place where those impacted by cancer can connect, find strength, and access support at every stage of their journey.

If you’d like to join, please contact us at (239) 343-9310 or email cancersupportcommunity@leehealth.org.

We also welcome volunteers to make a meaningful difference, whether that’s helping with events, community outreach, or leading classes. Any time or talent you can share is appreciated.
Cancer Support Community

📍 Lee Health Regional Cancer Center
8931 Colonial Center Drive, Suite 401
Fort Myers, FL 33905
📞 (239) 343-9310

08/12/2025

Open to all in Southwest Florida regardless of where they received care!

Such an amazing thing for our community! Lee Health Foundation

08/04/2025

Earlier this year, Southwest Florida native and Colorado football coach Deion Sanders shared that he had been diagnosed with bladder cancer, a moment that sent shockwaves through the sports world and his hometown community.

Thanks to early detection, treatment awareness, and the power of modern surgical technology, Coach Prime was declared cancer-free by his doctors after his recent procedure.

Stories like Deion’s are made possible through groundbreaking tools like the da Vinci robotic surgical system, which we use to treat bladder cancer with greater precision and less downtime for patients at the Lee Health Cancer Institute.

Dr. Joseph Klink, urologic oncologist, explains how our team uses minimally invasive surgery to remove bladder cancer while preserving quality of life and accelerating recovery, getting patients back to doing what they love, faster.

07/29/2025

Saddle up & ride for a cause as we partner with CycleBar Fort Myers to support cancer care in Southwest Florida!

All proceeds from this high-energy charity ride benefit the Lee Health Cancer Institute and the Cancer Care Communities Fund, directly helping patients and families in our region.

📍 WHEN & WHERE:
🗓 Saturday, August 9
📌 CycleBar Fort Myers 13499 S. Cleveland Ave. #233
🕘 Ride Times: 9 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.
💵 $20 per rider - 100% goes to support cancer care.

Throw on your best Western gear, grab your crew, and ride strong for a great cause!

📲 Use the QR codes on the flyer or click the links below to register:
9AM 🔗 https://loom.ly/8aCmewk
10:15AM🔗 https://loom.ly/8aCmewk

Don’t forget to stop by the Lee Health Cancer Institute table after your ride for information, giveaways, and resources!

Questions? Call 239-468-0050 or email HealthyLifeCenter@leehealth.org

07/18/2025

Living in the Sunshine State has its perks, but with Florida’s year-round UV exposure, sun safety is a must.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., and it doesn’t matter your age, background, or skin tone, everyone needs to protect their skin. Just 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure can cause lasting damage.

Dr. Audrey Wagner, family medicine physician with Lee Health, shares her expert advice on:
✅ Choosing the right SPF
✅ Daily sunscreen use (even in winter!)
✅ Why UV protection matters for everyone—including kids
✅ Sun-safe habits to protect your skin and eyes year-round

Remember: Prevention is powerful. Don’t wait for sunburns to make changes.

Stay safe and enjoy the sun the smart way!

👉 Read the full blog to learn how to build your Florida sunscreen strategy: https://loom.ly/mO88iJw

07/16/2025

Big changes are coming to Southwest Florida healthcare, and we want to hear from YOU.

Join us for a special Ask Me Anything with our Chief Development, Marketing and Communications Officer at Lee Health. He’ll be answering your questions as soon as possible right here in the comments!

Drop your questions now in the comments about:
✅ The new Lee Health Fort Myers campus
✅ How Lee Health is preparing for the future
✅ Access to care, wait times, specialties & more

Ask your questions early below to ensure they get answered as soon as possible!