VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center

01/13/2026

Congratulations to the more than 60 Massey physicians named to the 2026 "Virginia’s Top Doctors" list by Virginia Business!

Because these awards are peer-nominated, they reflect the deep trust and respect our specialists have earned across the Commonwealth. From groundbreaking research to compassionate bedside care, this recognition proves that world-class expertise is woven into every part of the Massey experience.

To our doctors and the teams who support them: Thank you for your relentless dedication to our patients. You are the heart of our mission.

One Team. One Fight.

Choosing who you trust with your health is an important decision, and more than 60 team members at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center have recently been recognized for their high-quality work in 20 specialties.

01/08/2026

Did you know that cervical cancer is highly treatable when caught early?

This January, for Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, we are focusing on the power of prevention. Through regular screenings and the HPV vaccine, we have the tools to significantly reduce the impact of this disease in our community.

At Massey, our mission is to ensure that every person has access to the education and care they need to stay ahead of a diagnosis. Whether it’s scheduling your first screening or talking to your loved ones about the HPV vaccine, taking action today is a vital step in our shared fight.

Click here to learn more about your screening options! https://www.masseycancercenter.org/community-outreach-and-engagement/prevention-services-and-screening/

01/07/2026

What does it look like to go from a cancer diagnosis to becoming a "billboard of hope" for others?

After surviving an aggressive breast cancer journey at Massey, Farrah Massenburg is giving back as the chair of the 31st annual Women & Wellness Luncheon. As she shared with WTVR CBS 6 News, this year’s event is about the "we" in wellness—relying on the strength of our community to fund life-saving research.

With keynote speaker and Olympian Chaunté Lowe joining the mission, the luncheon continues its 30-year legacy of turning inspiration into action.

Watch the full segment here:

In 2019, Farrah Massenburg discovered a lump while breastfeeding. The wife and mother of four underwent aggressive chemo treatments, the loss of her hair and a double mastectomy.

01/06/2026

On Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, the Women and Wellness Luncheon will celebrate the impact and the power of togetherness in the fight against women’s cancer.

Keynote speaker, Olympic athlete, and cancer survivor Chaunté Lowe will share her personal experiences training for the Olympics during her cancer treatment to raise awareness for cancer research, early detection and prevention.

Tickets are on sale now: https://give.vcu.edu/events/31st-annual-women-and-wellness-luncheon/?a=11723989

01/01/2026

As we step into 2026, our eyes are firmly on the horizon. We begin this new year with a renewed sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to the future of cancer care.

Our "One Team, One Fight" philosophy will continue to drive us toward the next generation of breakthroughs, moving from discovery in the lab to life-saving treatments at the bedside. We remain dedicated to ensuring that no matter who you are or where you live, the most advanced science and the most compassionate care are always within reach.

We are honored to enter another year as your partner in health, and we look forward to the milestones, recoveries, and hope that 2026 will bring to our community.

Wishing you a healthy, happy, and hopeful New Year!

01/01/2026

We’re closing out our year-long countdown with a story of purpose and new beginnings. In December, we celebrated Katie Walker, who reminded us that it is never too late to follow a calling.

After a decade-long career as a CPA, Katie chose to trade her ledger for the front lines of oncology. Inspired by a childhood friend’s battle with leukemia and a desire to make a more personal impact, she graduated from the VCU School of Nursing and officially joined the nursing team here at Massey.

Katie’s journey from accounting to cancer care is a testament to the passion that drives our team. We are honored to have people like Katie, who bring both their skills and their hearts to work every day, standing with our patients in the fight against cancer.

As Katie says, “I feel like I made the right choice... I think it was all really worth it in the end.”

Read Katie’s moving story of resilience and purpose: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/how-a-friends-leukemia-inspired-a-career-in-oncology-nursing/

12/30/2025

In November, we reached a major milestone in our mission to bring advanced care to every corner of the Commonwealth. Massey launched the first-ever clinical trial at VCU Health Tappahannock Hospital, a historic first for the hospital and the Northern Neck community.

This achievement means that patients in the region no longer have to travel long distances to access the latest research and therapies. The trial, part of the NCI-sponsored ACHIEVE study for advanced lung cancer, brings the promise of tomorrow’s treatments directly to our patients, right in their own backyard.

By expanding our research footprint to rural communities, Massey is ensuring that the highest standard of care is accessible to all Virginians, regardless of where they live.

Read more about this historic first in Tappahannock: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/massey-comprehensive-cancer-center-launches-first-ever-clinical-trial-at-vcu-health-tappahannock-hospital-/

12/30/2025

In October, we shared a deeply personal story from within our own Massey family. Nicole Hansen, our Director for the Executive Communications team, opened up about her own experience navigating breast cancer treatment and the incredible community that rallied behind her.

Check out the full video https://youtu.be/fJr66zoHSII

12/28/2025

In September, the energy at Massey was electric as more than 350 researchers, clinicians, and students gathered for the annual Walter Lawrence Jr. Research Retreat. This event is a hallmark of our commitment to Dr. Lawrence's mission: that the highest level of cancer science must be accessible to everyone.

The retreat served as a vital hub for innovation, where team members from across disciplines spent the day sharing their latest findings and sparking new ideas. From the keynote address to the bustling poster sessions, the spirit of discovery was on full display.

Relive the highlights from the retreat here: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/2025-walter-lawrence-jr-research-retreat-recap/

12/27/2025

A top highlight from August served as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. After 27 days in the hospital for a bone marrow transplant, patient Michael Stigall shared a special gift before headed home: a song he wrote on his ukulele titled "My DNA."

The song was a tribute to his journey, his anonymous donor, and the care team at Massey who supported him every step of the way. Surrounded by family, clinicians, and even members of the VCU Police who had befriended him during his stay, Michael’s performance was a beautiful moment of gratitude and hope.

As Michael sang, "Stay the course and live," he reminded all of us why we do this work. His story is a testament to the fact that while the path through cancer treatment is difficult, the strength and support found within our community make it possible to look toward a brighter future.

Watch Michael’s moving performance and read more about his story: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/stay-the-course-and-live-massey-patient-shares-hope-and-gratitude-through-song/

12/26/2025

In July, the Virginia Cancer Screening Research Network (CSRN), led by Massey, officially launched the Vanguard Study.

This study is evaluating new Multi-Cancer Detection (MCD) blood tests that could help find 10 different types of cancer, including breast, lung, and pancreatic in their earliest stages. It’s an important part of our mission to lead the way in making cancer screening more effective and accessible for our entire community.

And great news! There is still availability to enroll in the study at South Hill, so if you’re between ages 45-75 and haven't had a cancer diagnosis in the last five years, you may be eligible to participate and help us shape the future of cancer detection.

Learn more about this vital research and see if you qualify to join: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/virginia-screening-network-launches-vanguard-study-to-evaluate-tests-for-the-early-detection-of-several-cancers/

12/25/2025

In June, we celebrated a major step forward for cancer care in rural Virginia. Massey and VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital unveiled the only radiation therapy system in Southern Virginia.

Located at the Solari Radiation Therapy Center in South Hill, this cutting-edge technology allows for greater precision and faster treatment times, all while keeping patients closer to their homes and support systems.

At Massey, we believe that life-saving innovation should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their zip code. Bringing this level of care to South Hill ensures our patients in rural communities receive the same high standard of treatment available in any major city.

https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/vcu-health-community-memorial-hospital-unveils-southern-virginias-only-radiation-therapy-machine/