Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology

08/18/2025

🥦 Nutrition plays a vital role in healing—mind and body.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, in treatment, or navigating survivorship, your nutritional needs change—and we’re here to support you.

At Simms/Mann, our registered dietitians specialize in oncology care. We offer:
✅ One-on-one consultations
✅ Personalized nutrition plans
✅ Guidance for managing side effects
✅ Practical tips, recipes, and follow-up support

Let us help you feel your best through every stage of your cancer journey.
📞 Schedule a session: 310-794-6644
📧 Or email: SimmsMannCenter@mednet.ucla.edu

08/16/2025

The Los Angeles Lakers opened their training facility doors to highlight integrative mental health for those facing cancer treatment.🏀 The Simms/Mann Center showcased how whole-person care meets center court. Click to be inspired by this unique partnership:

Breadcrumb Home Simms Mann Mental wellness a joint mission of the Lakers and the Simms/Mann Center Simms/Mann Center staff Kelli Sargent, left, Dr. Valentina Ogaryan, Dr. Shannon La Cava, Emma Veilleux and Dr. Alison Wong. (Photo courtesy of The Los Angeles Lakers) July 14, 2025 By UCLA Health 1 min...

08/15/2025

🍳 Eggs in Tomato Sauce with Herbed Yogurt: Quick Comfort, Big Flavor 🍅

This 12-minute dish is as nourishing as it is simple. With protein-rich eggs, antioxidant-packed tomato sauce, and a creamy herbed yogurt topping, it’s a perfect go-to for anyone seeking warmth and healing through food.

Why it works:
✅ High in protein to support energy and recovery
✅ Gentle flavors with bright herbs for digestion
✅ Ready in under 15 minutes

👨‍🍳 Full Recipe: https://www.uclahealth.org/simms-mann-center/recipes/eggs-tomato-sauce-with-herbed-yogurt

08/09/2025

“I’ve been very lucky in my unluckiness.”

Izak Ben-Meir, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker and longtime UCLA Health patient, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma at 56. Now, 13 years later, he reflects on his journey—marked by innovative treatments, powerful support, and the healing power of poetry.

In this moving story, Izak shares how the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology helped him find meaning in the midst of uncertainty—and how writing haikus gave him a way to process it all.

📖 Read the full article: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/izak-ben-meir-considers-himself-very-fortunate-13-years-after-myeloma-diagnosis

08/03/2025

Upcoming Webinars from Simms/Mann UCLA Center
Swipe through to explore two empowering sessions focused on integrative care and nutrition for cancer patients and survivors.

📅 Aug 15, 12–1 PM
Following Osler’s Adage: Integrative Medicine in GI Cancers
With Dr. Sidharth Anand, MD, MBA (UCLA GI Medical Oncology)
➡ Explore evidence-based approaches to nutrition, psychosocial therapy, exercise, and supplements for colorectal, gastroesophageal, and pancreatic cancers.

📅 Aug 21, 12–1 PM
Nutrition & Symptom Management in Breast Cancer
With Emma Veilleux, MS, RD
➡ Get practical, myth-busting guidance on managing weight, diet, and recurrence risk during and after treatment.

🔗 Register now: https://www.uclahealth.org/simms-mann-center/our-services/educational-programming

07/31/2025

👭 This Friendship Day, we’re honoring the friends who walk beside us through it all.

At Simms/Mann, we recognize the powerful role of friendship in healing. Whether you're a caregiver, confidante, or companion—your support matters.

We offer:
💙 Support groups tailored for caregivers
💻 Webinars open to friends and loved ones
💬 Resources to help you show up with compassion and care

👉 Learn more about how we support caregivers and friends: https://www.uclahealth.org/simms-mann-center

07/21/2025

😴 Struggling with sleep during or after cancer treatment?

You’re not alone. Over a third of U.S. adults report insomnia—and it's especially common for those affected by cancer.

In this recorded webinar, Kathleen Russell, DSW, LCSW, shares evidence-based tips for improving sleep, including:
✅ How to build a consistent routine
✅ Managing stress and medication-related disruptions
✅ Creating a restful sleep environment
✅ Simple relaxation exercises

📺 Watch now: https://www.uclahealth.org/videos/improving-sleep-zzzz-recorded-webinar

07/17/2025

🧠 Struggling to remember names or find the right words after cancer treatment? You’re not alone.

“Chemo brain” and other cognitive changes—like memory lapses, word-finding issues, and trouble focusing—can impact your confidence, daily tasks, and even your career.

This slide is one small example of the helpful strategies discussed in our recent webinar with Dr. Kathleen Van Dyk. 💡 She covers the science behind these cognitive changes and what you can do to support your brain health moving forward.
📺 Now available in our Video Library! 👉 https://www.uclahealth.org/videos/cognitive-impacts-after-treatment-recorded-webinar

07/09/2025

✨ We're expanding in-person support at Simms/Mann! ✨

Join our NEW Support Groups in San Luis Obispo—a space to connect, share, and heal.

🌿 Living with Advanced/Metastatic Cancer
📅 2nd & 4th Thursdays | Starting July 10
🕓 4:00–5:30 PM

📍 UCLA Health San Luis Obispo Cancer Care
No cost to attend. All cancer types welcome.
💛 Learn more at https://www.uclahealth.org/simms-mann-center/person-support-groups

Explore in-person cancer support groups offered by the Simms/Mann Center in San Luis Obispo. Connect with others and receive compassionate, expert-led support.

07/07/2025

🍜 Garlic Sesame Soba Noodles: Fast, Flavorful, and Feel-Good 🍜

Short on time but craving something warm and nourishing? These Garlic Sesame Soba Noodles are packed with immune-supporting ingredients and come together in just 20 minutes.

Why they’re a win:
✅ High in fiber and plant-based protein
✅ Garlic and ginger may support immunity and reduce inflammation
✅ Quick to prepare with flexible veggie options

👨‍🍳 Full Recipe: https://ucla.in/4kuDgVh

Explore more supportive recipes and wellness tips at the Simms/Mann UCLA Center. 💙 Questions? simmsmanncenter@mednet.ucla.edu

Simms Mann Center offers healthy, easy-to-make meal ideas for cancer patients and caregivers. Try our easy Garlic Sesame Soba Noodles recipe in just 20 minutes.

06/21/2025

🧘‍♀️ Celebrating the International Day of Yoga through the lens of healing and survivorship.

Last year, in partnership with the NFL’s Crucial Catch initiative and the American Cancer Society, Simms/Mann survivors gathered for a meaningful yoga practice at the Los Angeles Chargers' training facility.

The session highlighted the role of mindfulness, movement, and connection in the survivorship journey—supporting the body and spirit through every phase of healing.

We’re proud to stand with our partners in championing whole-person care, on and off the mat. 💙

06/20/2025

🍦 Golden Milk Popsicles: Soothing Support in Every Bite 🍦

These anti-inflammatory Golden Milk Popsicles are a refreshing treat with a purpose—perfect for those managing symptoms during or after cancer treatment.

Why they’re a go-to:
✅ Cooling and calming for sensitive mouths
✅ Packed with turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon—natural anti-inflammatories
✅ Protein-rich from Greek yogurt to support strength

👨‍🍳 Full Recipe: https://ucla.in/4kN5JGu

Explore more integrative nutrition resources at the Simms/Mann UCLA Center, or contact us at simmsmanncenter@mednet.ucla.edu. 💙