In the closing month of 2025, the innovative care provided by Atrium Health Levine Cancer Proton & Advanced Radiation Center was showcased when they successfully administered proton beam therapy to their 100th patient since the inception of this service in 2024. The patient who marked this milestone was a young 15-year-old girl, Ava Schmid, who was being treated for Hodgkin lymphoma.
Living in the eastern parts of North Carolina, Ava and her family were grateful for the proximity of the proton therapy center.
Facing a Distressing Diagnosis
In 2024, Ava’s parents observed swelling on her neck’s left side. Medical examinations, followed by a chest X-ray and blood tests, led to a biopsy revealing Hodgkin lymphoma. Not only was the diagnosis shocking, but the intensity of the treatment was overwhelming. Ava battled through invasive procedures, chemotherapy, and more, only to find out that her cancer returned in early 2025, placing her in the high-risk category.
Choosing Proton Therapy for Hodgkin Lymphoma
Dr. Roshan Prabhu, a radiation oncologist at Atrium Health Levine Cancer, recommended proton therapy for Ava’s condition, considering her age and the location of her cancer. Proton therapy, unlike traditional radiation, is a more precise treatment, minimizing exposure to healthy tissue and thus reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Ava’s Journey through Proton Beam Treatment
Ava’s proton therapy at Levine Cancer involved a regimen of 20 treatments spread over four weeks. Despite the long-distance travel required for the therapy, Ava managed to maintain some semblance of normalcy in her life, all while dealing with fatigue as the only side effect of the therapy.
Life Changes and Adaptations
Despite the fact that lymphoma disrupted several milestones of Ava’s young life, the high school student continued to excel acadically, showcasing her resilience and determination. She managed to maintain her straight-A record and further nurture her love for math and art.
Experiencing Compassionate Care at Levine Cancer
Beyond the innovative technology used in Ava’s treatment, the Schmid family greatly appreciated the compassionate care provided by the team at Levine Cancer. The staff’s dedication and knowledge, coupled with their ability to form special bonds with their patients, significantly contributed to Ava’s successful treatment journey.
Marking a Significant Milestone in Patient Care
As Dr. Prabhu reflects on treating more than 100 patients since the center’s opening, he recognizes the unique circumstances of each patient. He acknowledges the importance of providing access to this state-of-the-art treatment, particularly for patients who may face a greater risk with traditional radiation therapy or have limited access to such advanced care.
Find more information about the proton therapy at Levine Cancer.
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