Hope Cancer Center began with one doctor's idea to create a home-like atmosphere for patients battling cancer, a warm, friendly environment tuned towards treating the complete person by providing physical, psychological and emotional support. The staff of Hope Cancer Center and Dr. Venkatraj have complete faith in this approach in treating cancer patients.
Hope Cancer Center began in January 2000 when Venkatraj opened her practice in Bryan emphasizing compassion, concern and a caring touch. Venkatraj sums up her philosophy, “My main focus as an oncologist is to preserve quality of life and let patients live a normal life while treating their cancer.”
The background of Venkatraj is impressive. From her early work with clinical trials involving breast cancer to a medical leadership role as the Co-Director of Albert Einstein Breast Cancer Center in New York to running her own practice in the Brazos Valley, she has never lost sight of the importance of compassionate care and complete honesty. She explains, “Patient trust is a great thing to have when working to combat a disease such as cancer. It's always the best option to be honest and explain all scenarios and possibilities so individuals can make informed decisions.”
Today, most treatments for cancer are available right here in the Brazos Valley. Patients at Hope Cancer Center can now get individualized care with personal attention. Dr. Venkatraj listens to patient concerns and suggests possible coping mechanisms such as support groups, exercise, music or spirituality. Hope Cancer provides a service, “Bridges to Hope,” a class for patients and family members that focuses on emotional and spiritual well-being. Venkatraj explains another key coping mechanism, “The emotional support of the family is invaluable for most cancer patients. Here in the Brazos Valley, families really come together to support each other through difficult times.”
Venkatraj, the mother of three children, strives to get kids involved in healthy lifestyles. By speaking to children at schools about the dangers of smoking and alcohol abuse, she hopes to impact children's lives in a positive way. She also speaks at American Cancer Society functions and to senior citizens about the importance of regular check-ups.
For health concerns or more information about Dr. Venkatraj, please call (979) 693-2900. Hope Cancer Center... even the name indicates a bright outlook for the future.
