Giving With Intent

Dr. Claire Andreasen is a professor and director of One Health in the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She eats healthy, raises her own vegetables, exercises regularly and takes good care of herself.

Yet during a routine run in late 2016, she noticed a hardening and heaviness in her left breast. Even though she had a mammogram and ultrasound just eight weeks prior that both tested negative, she scheduled a visit with Jessica Siler, PA-C, at McFarland Clinic and was thankful she did.

After another ultrasound and biopsy, she was surprised to learn she had an extremely rare and fast-growing form of breast cancer. Since time was of the essence, a plan of treatment was developed very quickly with oncologist Dr. Debra Prow and surgeon Dr. James Partridge.

Because Claire's form of cancer is rare, she discussed the option of participating in available clinical trials with Dr. Prow. Claire had confidence in her team and moved forward to enroll in a trial to increase the scientific knowledge and effective treatment of this cancer. "The physicians and medical staff worked together so well and took such great care of me," Claire says. During this time, Claire continued to manage all the daily demands of her job at Iowa State. "It was important for me to keep working, and living only about seven minutes from the medical center allowed me to do so," she says.

"Mary Greeley is a true gem in our community. I know being close to the facility and having such a great team prevented me from having a lot of complications."

Claire's positive experience at Mary Greeley led her to include the medical center in her estate plan. She has become a new member of the Greeley Society by designating the Mary Greeley Foundation as a partial beneficiary of her TIAA retirement plan. "It was really easy to do," Claire says. "This gift is one way I can express my gratitude for the excellent care I received and help future cancer patients."

Claire continues to have check-ups every three to six months and urges all women to get mammograms and perform regular self-examinations.

You too can make a difference for future patients at Mary Greeley. Contact Sarah Heineman at 515-239-2421 or heineman@mgmc.com to learn more.