City of Hope Chicago

01/29/2026

Cancer is one of the most under-recognized health risks to firefighters. In fact, firefighters have a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer than the general U.S. population. During Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month this January, we want to shine a light, not just on the risk, but on the hope.

Rudy H., cancer survivor and fire chief of the McHenry Township Fire Protection District, stresses to his fellow firefighters the importance of routine medical exams. After treating at City of Hope Cancer Center Chicago, he's cancer free. Now, as part of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, Rudy educates firefighters on steps they can take to reduce their risks.

01/24/2026

Good News! The latest CDC report suggests the peak of the flu season may be behind us.

As always, we’re committed to protecting our patients, visitors, and staff, especially those whose immune systems are more vulnerable.

Please remember:
• If you have a fever or cough, please do not visit — even with the flu trending down.
• For healthy visitors: please wash your hands when you arrive and before you leave.
• And always cover your cough with a tissue, your sleeve, or your elbow.

Let’s celebrate signs of improvement, and continue to look out for one another. 💪

Learn more from the CDC here:
https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2026-week-01.html

01/21/2026

Eight of our providers have the distinction of being named to the 2026 Castle Connolly Top Doctors list. They say that's more than an honor; it’s a reflection of their shared commitment to their patients. Every day, our physicians and care teams strive to deliver safe, high quality, and compassionate care, because your health and well-being are at the heart of everything we do.

🎥 Watch the video to hear each physician share a personal thank-you.

Elham Abboud, M.D.
Edward Kaplan, M.D.
Ajaz Khan, M.D., M.B.A., C.P.E.
Karan Shah, M.D., M.B.A.
Walter Stadler, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.S.C.O.
Bradford Tan, M.D.
Pankaj Vashi, M.D., A.G.A.F., F.A.S.P.E.N.
David J. Wi******er, M.D., F.A.C.S.

https://www.castleconnolly.com/castle-connolly-top-doctors

01/19/2026

Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by continuing to ensure every person, regardless of background, has access to compassionate and high quality cancer treatment.

Dr. King reminded us that caring for others is both a responsibility and a calling. We are proud to carry that message forward through service, dignity, and excellence in care.

01/13/2026

The new Cancer Society 2026 Cancer Facts & Figures report shows meaningful progress in cancer outcomes, with more people living longer after a diagnosis. For the first time, five-year survival rate for all cancers combined has reached 70% for people diagnosed between 2015 and 2021 in the United States.

At City of Hope Chicago, we’re building on that momentum every day through innovative research, expanding clinical trials and whole person care that supports patients and families at every step.

View the report: https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/all-cancer-facts-figures/2026-cancer-facts-figures.html

01/03/2026

Do you have a job that requires you to work outdoors? Even in the winter months, sun screen protection is vital, as we hear from Dr. Gaurav Singh, City of Hope Chicago's first dermatologist. Dr. Singh conducted skin screenings at the annual Illinois Farm Bureau meeting and spoke with FarmWeekNow on the RFD Radio Network.

01/02/2026

Some of our team members including Chief Nursing Officer Angelina Fakhoury, Stem Cell Transplant Coordinator Vilma R., and Director of Nursing Laarni S. rang in the new year with courage, laughter and a big splash!

The Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge wasn’t just about the cold — it’s about courage, community, and showing up for something bigger than yourself. All proceeds benefitted Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County so more people can enjoy camps, sports, and wellness programs.

As 2026 begins, comment below: what’s one brave step you’re hoping to take this year?

01/01/2026

Rudy H. is a seasoned firefighter who had learned to see danger in smoke and flames; yet, he could not see that he himself was in danger. He agreed to a colonoscopy seven years earlier than the recommended minimum age and that decision turned out to be a life saver.

Today, Rudy is eight years cancer-free and riding the City of Hope float at the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. The float is titled, “Overcoming Cancer and Diabetes Together" and Rudy is sitting on the bench at the front. The float highlights how researchers pioneer breakthrough cures, expert care teams deliver the latest treatments, and patients and their families unite to overcome cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

Standing 20 feet high and adorned with over 12-thousand flowers, City of Hope’s float features a stunning centerpiece pillar displaying the word “hope” on both sides.

12/31/2025

As the year comes to a close, there’s a quiet moment many of us recognize.
A pause to look back on what we’ve carried… and a breath before stepping into what’s next.

Within these walls, we’ve witnessed strength, resilience, faith, and quiet determination, moments of looking back, and moments of praying for what’s ahead.

Tonight, we honor every prayer whispered, every hope held, and every step forward, no matter how small.

12/29/2025

During the month of December, focus is given to cancer-related fatigue.
Long-haul truck driver Jeff B. told Milwaukee's Newsradio 620 WTMJ Afternoon Show in this interview, exhaustion hit him hard. After he was initially given just six months to live after a Stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis, this career truck-driver sought a second opinion at City of Hope Cancer Center. Nearly three years later, Jeff's energy is back and his last two scans have shown no sign of cancer!

12/28/2025

12/25/2025

Looking back on a magical evening when patients, employees and their loved ones filled our hospital lobby with joy and light as we gathered for our annual Holiday of Hope tree lighting.

Chief Nursing Officer Angelina Fakhoury shared an inspiring message about gratitude. Patients Debbie, Willie, and Lina led the caroling and patient Gary had the honors of lighting the tree this year. Additionally, we had a special appearance by the The Dickens Carollers from Woodstock, IL.

Watch this video to relive the beauty of the tradition and the smiles that made the night unforgettable.

Wishing you peace, health, and happiness this holiday season!🎄