Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology

11/12/2025

🌟 November Events at Simms/Mann Center 🌟
This month we’re offering a range of programs—from gentle breathwork to expert-led educational talks—designed to support patients and their loved ones through every stage of the cancer journey.

📅 November Highlights:
🌿 Stillness & Strength: A Breathwork Group (Nov. 12, 19)
📖 Advance Care Planning Community Session (First Wednesday of every month)
🍎 Navigating GI Cancer: UCLA Resources & Support (First Wednesday of every month)
🔵 Updates in Colorectal Cancer (Nov. 12)
💜 Weight Concerns After Breast Cancer (Nov. 20)

✨ All events are free for UCLA patients.
✨ Many are virtual and easy to join from home.

For details or enrollment, email: simmsmanncenter@mednet.ucla.edu

11/10/2025

11/08/2025

After losing her hearing at age 10, Giselle Nissenbaum discovered that listening is not just about sound — it’s about attention, empathy, and connection.

Today, as a gynecologic oncology clinician at the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, Giselle draws on that understanding to support women navigating cancer diagnoses that often touch every part of their identity.

“The intersection of women’s health and oncology is really important work,” she says. “These experiences are so layered emotionally, socially and culturally.”

Giselle’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and the power of being deeply heard.

💜 Read her full story:

Breadcrumb Home Simms Mann Gynecologic oncology clinician helps patients through the emotions of a cancer diagnosis ‘The intersection of women's health and oncology is really important work, and these experiences are so layered emotionally, socially and culturally,’ says Giselle Nissenbaum. Gise...

10/24/2025

When his wife, Lucia, passed away from breast cancer in 2023, Wing Ng was overwhelmed by grief he’d never known before.

With the guidance of Simms/Mann Center psychologist Dr. Jenny Tran, Wing began to open up about his emotions — a step that felt unfamiliar but deeply healing.

“Being a guy, being Asian, I’m probably not too open,” Wing said. “Just letting things out with Dr. Tran… the emotions would just come out.”

His story highlights how culturally sensitive care can help people explore grief and find emotional balance after loss.

💜 Read more about Wing’s journey of love, loss, and healing: https://ucla.in/476veyf

Breadcrumb Home Simms Mann Unlocking emotions following the death of a loved one After his wife died, Wing Ng found culturally sensitive support through the Simms/Mann Center. Lucia and Wing Ng. Lucia passed away in December 2023. (Photo courtesy of Wing Ng) October 3, 2025 By Courtney Perkes 5 min....

10/23/2025

We’re so proud of our Clinical Director, Dr. Valentina Ogaryan, for being featured in People! She offers thoughtful insights on coping, connection, and emotional healing after a breast cancer diagnosis. 💕

Read the article: https://people.com/what-changes-to-expect-after-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis-11827000

10/16/2025

🎃 Roasted Spaghetti Squash Seeds – a crunchy, seasonal snack perfect for October!

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this simple, wholesome snack that’s fun to make and delicious to eat.

Prep time: 20 min | Cook time: 30 min | Servings: 2

Ingredients:
½ cup spaghetti squash seeds (or pumpkin seeds)
½ tsp olive or avocado oil
1 tsp maple syrup
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp kosher salt

Instructions
Clean nd dry seeds thoroughly.

Preheat oven to 300°F.
Toss seeds with oil, maple syrup, cumin, cinnamon, and salt.
Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake 15 min, stir, then bake 10–15 min more until golden & crispy.

✨ Adapted from EatingWell

Get the entire recipe here:

These Roasted Spaghetti Squash Seeds from Simms/Mann are a crunchy, nutrient-dense snack or side packed with flavor, perfect for a plant-based cancer-friendly diet.

10/09/2025

10/08/2025

🎨 AYA Paint Day!
Come join us Saturday, October 11 at 12 p.m. for a relaxing and creative afternoon!

The AYA Oncology Program at UCLA Health and United on Campus (formerly LLS Club) are teaming up to host a Paint Day for young adults affected by cancer.

🖌️ Enjoy a chance to unwind, connect, and create some cool art alongside other patients and students.

📍 Sost — spots are limited! To RSVP, click here: https://bit.ly/46VVvhs

10/01/2025

09/27/2025

💪 Nut Butter Oat Energy Balls – your new go-to snack!

Quick, easy, and packed with energy—these no-bake bites are perfect for breakfast on the go, a midday boost, or a post-workout snack.

Prep time: 15 min | Servings: 12

Ingredients:
¾ cup Medjool dates, chopped
½ cup rolled oats
¼ cup natural peanut or almond butter
Chia seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:
Soak dates in hot water 5–10 min, then drain.
Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until finely chopped.
Roll into 12 balls, garnish with chia seeds if desired.
Chill at least 15 min. Store in fridge up to 1 week.

✨ Adapted from EatingWell

Fuel your day with these wholesome, delicious bites! Get the full recipe here:

These Nut Butter Oat Energy Balls from Simms/Mann are the perfect no-bake snack for cancer patients. Easy to digest, low-fat, and full of energy-boosting ingredients.

09/24/2025

09/23/2025

🌟 Meet Carly, Our New Young Adult Social Worker!

We’re thrilled to welcome Carly to the Simms/Mann Center team! As a licensed clinical social worker, Carly is dedicated to supporting adolescent and young adult patients and their families, helping them navigate the unique challenges of an oncology diagnosis.

Carly brings a wealth of experience—from pediatric inpatient care to transplant support—and a compassionate, trauma-informed approach. She leads our Young Adult Support Group and is committed to creating a safe space where patients and families feel heard and supported.

Outside of work, Carly enjoys exploring LA, playing softball, and spending time with her two dogs, Koa and Sulley, and her cat, Rebel. 🐾

Welcome, Carly! We’re so grateful to have you on our team. 💛 Click to learn more: https://ucla.in/4gLXRE7