Gift assists cancer patients
November 7, 2022
A philanthropic gift of a patient care coordinator designated to assist female bladder cancer patients in education, clinical decision-making, surveillance, support and even screening is the first of its kind at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Brianne “Bree” Duncan, research nurse specialist III, is the first recipient of the Gail Kraemer Care Coordinator for Female Bladder Cancer Patients position created by a generous gift from patient and donor, Gail Kraemer, who passed in August 2022.
Kraemer gave money in an endowed fund specifically for female bladder cancer patients and to help fund a patient care coordinator to advocate specifically for female bladder cancer patients.
“This position is truly unique and offers specialized attention and care to an underserved population,” said Sam Chang, MD, MBA, Patricia and Rodes Hart Professor of Urologic Surgery.
“This program led and coordinated by Bree will provide education resources, information and support. More importantly it provides reassurance and guidance for what may happen in the future,” he said.
Chang said Duncan will be available for female bladder cancer patients anywhere along the disease spectrum — initial screening, clinical visits, study enrollment, preoperative care, postoperative care and in the hospital.