The philosophy is one that heals every part of a person: recognizing that every cancer journey is unique and that each patient deserves a personalized care plan that addresses not just their cancer, but their overall well-being.
“We coordinate a variety of services to ensure patients receive comprehensive care,” Oncology Nurse Navigator Cynthia Andrews, RN, MS, CCRN said. “Oncologists, speech-language pathologists, dietitians, radiologists and other specialists collaborate to create tailored treatment strategies.”
Dr. Priya Ramshesh, medical director of Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center in The Woodlands and medical oncologist described the multi-disciplinary collaboration as “a journey in a large car with multiple drivers.” She explained that this collaboration and engagement enables the cancer center to remain at the forefront of treatment options.
The center offers advanced care for various cancers, including breast, tongue, prostate and hematologic cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma. With expertise in surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy, it provides tailored treatment options to meet each patient's needs. Equipped with state-of-the-art scanners, the center provides advanced radiation therapies, including CyberKnife, stereotactic radiosurgery and Y90 radioembolization for liver cancer.
A standout feature of the center is its access to groundbreaking clinical trials, where patients can participate in cutting-edge research and explore new therapies not yet available through standard treatments.
From nutritional counseling to pain management, patients are treated holistically to ensure they receive care that nurtures both body and mind. Additionally, emotional support through counseling and support groups is provided to help patients navigate the psychological aspects of their journey.
“Cancer treatment extends beyond medical care—it involves emotional and mental well-being as well,” Dr. Ramshesh said. “We place the patient at the center of everything we do and treat them as we would treat ourselves.”
Patient testimony: Al Cantu
In March 2019, Al Cantu began experiencing discomfort in his ear and throat. After visiting his primary care physician and being referred to three specialists, an ear, nose and throat doctor ordered magnetic resonance imaging. The results of the MRI confirmed that Cantu had the Stage 2 base of tongue and lymph node cancer.
The ENT immediately referred Cantu to Houston Methodist The Woodlands, where he was introduced to Dr. Priya Ramshesh and the multi-disciplinary team, who became his primary treating physicians.
Cantu underwent 33 rounds of radiation and three rounds of chemotherapy as part of his treatment.
He faced many new challenges throughout his journey, such as a feeding tube, which was necessary to maintain his nutrition as his ability to eat was severely impacted.
“I’m not a nurse, and I never thought I’d have to do something so hard as feeding and medicating my husband through a feeding tube. Houston Methodist guided us, gave us instructions and sent a company out to show us how to use the feeding tube,” Cantu’s wife Billie Cantu said.
The journey was physically and emotionally exhausting, but he remained committed to the fight with the help of Houston Methodist staff.
“The staff at Houston Methodist The Woodlands are incredibly caring and helped my wife and I immensely,” Cantu said. “About two-thirds through my treatment, I was struggling both physically and emotionally. One nurse noticed and asked if we could pray together, and that prayer got me through the final stretch of my journey.”
Patient testimony: Elsa Cordera
In December 2022, Elsa Cordera noticed a small spot on her tongue that was initially dismissed by her dentist as a taste bud issue. However, after Christmas, the spot grew larger and became painful. Concerned, Elsa and her husband, Joseph, followed up with their dentist and were referred to an oral surgeon in early January 2023 for further evaluation.
The results revealed that Elsa had squamous cell cancer, which affects the flat, thin cells that line the tongue's surface.
"We were referred to another hospital, but they were moving slowly, so I reached out to Cynthia [Andrews]. She understood the urgency and got us an appointment within two days," Joseph Cordera said. "By the following week, we had a scan, met with the ENT and saw Dr. Ramesh. They diagnosed it as Stage 4 cancer, as it had crossed the mid-line of her tongue and spread to her lymph nodes.”
Cordera’s doctors informed her that she would need highly complex surgery to remove the cancer. To prepare, they began chemotherapy to shrink the tumor, help her regain strength and allow her to gain weight.
Cordera underwent surgery to remove two-thirds of her tongue and 72 lymph nodes. Afterward, she spent two days in the ICU and a total of 10 days in the hospital.
Cordera’s recovery continued with six rounds of milder chemotherapy and 33 rounds of radiation, all while using a feeding tube. Despite the hardships, Elsa rang the bell on July 27, 2023, marking the end of her treatment.
“At Houston Methodist The Woodlands, I felt as if I had a home. There are many new experiences with cancer that you don’t expect, and they were there to guide me through all of them,” Cordera said. “Everyone at Houston Methodist was instrumental in helping me through this process, from showing me how to tie a scarf when I lost all of my hair to teaching me about what foods to eat to help me gain weight.”
Fostering supportive connections among patients
Cantu and Cordera’s paths crossed during their cancer journeys, thanks to Andrews.
“When I learned about Elsa and Joseph, I reached out to Billie and Al to see if he would be willing to guide them through their journey. They immediately said, ‘Absolutely, whatever we can do to help,’” Andrews said. “Cancer is an emotional battle, and having a mentor or support group can give patients the sense of purpose they need to keep moving forward.”
She put them in touch, and they found comfort in sharing their stories and supporting each other. Both Cantu and Cordera participated in the general cancer support group through the Health Education and Learning (HEAL) program at Houston Methodist The Woodlands, where they found community and strength in knowing they weren’t alone. Their bond became an essential part of their recovery process.
“Patients who have gone through the same journey are the best supporters and mentors,” Dr. Ramshesh said. “I am able to learn from the patient’s resilience and strength as well.”
Billie Cantu remains actively involved in HEAL’s programs, where she teaches diamond art and volunteers. Cordera hopes to join HEAL as a volunteer soon as well.
Call to action
Early detection can make a world of difference. By committing to routine screenings and regular visits to doctors, individuals can catch potential health issues before they become critical.
Advocating for one's own health and the health of loved ones is equally important. It is essential to ask questions, seek second opinions when necessary, and ensure full understanding of health conditions and treatment options.
Taking steps toward preventive care, such as eating a balanced diet, staying active and managing stress, can help reduce the risk of many health conditions, including cancer. Individuals should make their health a priority and avoid waiting for symptoms to appear before seeking medical attention. Prioritizing well-being can lead to a lasting impact on future health.
Learn more
To get help finding a doctor at the Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at The Woodlands, call 936-270-3333.
To learn more about the Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at The Woodlands, visit the center’s website.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
