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Honoring BMC Patients This National Cancer Survivors Day |
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June 8 marked National Cancer Survivors Day — a moment to reflect on the strength and resilience of patients who have overcome a cancer diagnosis, like Rolanda Henry.
While living in Anguilla in 2022, Rolanda started feeling very sick, “I had a cold and cough that hung on for months. My nose was bleeding, and I was feeling really drained.” Though her local hospital ran some blood tests and suspected multiple myeloma, they couldn’t test for it or treat it there. Luckily for Rolanda, her sisters lived in the Boston area, so she was able to get diagnosed with and treated for multiple myeloma at BMC.
After several serious setbacks, including a heart attack, a seizure, and pneumonia, Rolanda started chemotherapy and received a stem cell transplant. And in May 2023, Rolanda got the good news that her cancer is in remission. “My experience at BMC has been second to none,” says Rolanda today. “Every provider I have met is so kind, and they really care about how I am doing. That has made me feel so much better.”(Read Rolanda's Full Journey to Remission)
Join The Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, The Faith-Based Cancer Disparities Network, and The Boston Public Health Commission at Healing Power 2025 on June 28 to uplift cancer survivors, caregivers, and community supporters. This celebration of wellness, connection, and joy will be filled with demonstrations (including acupuncture, archery and chair yoga), samples, literature, screenings, and speakers. |
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Men’s Health Week: Why Prostate Cancer Screening Matters |
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June means cookouts, vacations, time with family – and Men’s Health Month. This is a healthy reminder to men to check in on mental and physical health, including prostate health. While it might not be the main topic of conversation between innings at Fenway, starting the conversation with family or friends can make a real difference. It’s not always easy or comfortable to talk about personal health concerns — but talking about it could lead to early detection —
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and better outcomes.
Prostate cancer is the second most cancer in American men — about 1 in 8 will be diagnosed in their lifetime. While older age is a major factor, around 10 percent of new prostate cancer cases occur in men under 55.
“Many men avoid prostate cancer screening because they’re uncomfortable with the idea of a digital rectal exam,” says Dr. Michael Katz, a Boston Medical Center urologist. “But that’s no longer the main approach. The PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test is now the mainstay of prostate cancer screening, which is a non-invasive blood test.”
Some men avoid screening because of an understandable fear of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. However, avoiding testing doesn’t make a possible illness go away.
“The American Urological Association recommends screening to begin between the ages of 45 to 50,” continues Dr. Katz. “For men with risk factors for prostate cancer, which include a family history, Black ancestry, and Germaine mutations, screening should begin even sooner.”
If you have a family history of prostate cancer or are experiencing symptoms — like trouble urinating, a weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination (especially at night), difficulty fully emptying your bladder, pain or burning during urination, blood in your urine or semen, or persistent pain in your back, hips, or pelvis — it’s time to talk to your doctor.
Symptoms or not, this summer — between innings, beach days, and family cookouts — take time for your health. A quick check-in with your provider can go a long way. |
| Start The Conversation With A BMC Urologist → |
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With the Right Care, Massiel Feels More in Control of Her Sickle Cell Disease |
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Every June 19, the BMC community recognizes World Sickle Cell Awareness Day by sharing patient stories, and educating our community about the inherited blood disorder sickle cell disease (SCD).
This year, we’re proud to highlight the strength and resilience of 38-year-old Massiel Rivera. Living with SCD has not been easy—she’s undergone a recent hip replacement, and often experiences
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joint pain, especially in the cold. “Everything is always a little complicated with sickle cell,” she explains.
Despite the challenges, Massiel stays optimistic thanks to her care team at BMC’s Center of Excellence in Sickle Cell Disease and the love of her two sons, Jared and Jariel. Massiel credits her care team, especially Dr. Lillian McMahon and NP Charlene Sylvestre, “They are very active in my care and always answer me right away. They offer me a lot of support.” She also values her team’s dedication to discovering new treatments. I believe they will find something in the future that will make the lives of sickle cell patients easier,” she says. “That’s why I always participate in research!” (Read Massiel’s Full Story Here)
At BMC, we’re proud to walk alongside patients like Massiel every step of the way. |
| Explore More About BMC’s Center of Excellence In Sickle Cell Disease → |
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Father’s Day: Honoring the Families Who Power Our Health System |
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Across Boston Medical Center Health System, we’re proud to spotlight three father–child duos whose stories, and shared work, reflect the care, commitment, and compassion that is BMC.
At BMC, Latchman and his son Kevin are part of a family legacy that spans over 40 years and nearly 20 relatives. From food services to Guest Support, they’ve each played a role in helping
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patients feel seen and supported.
At BMC Brighton, Kevin and Danny bring the same energy to facilities support. Kevin joined in the 1980s and later encouraged Danny to apply for a Licensed HVAC Technician position. Today, they help keep the hospital safe, running, and welcoming to all.
At BMC South, Barry and Josh worked side by side as cardiologists, combining decades of experience with a shared commitment to patient care. After time, Barry retired and passed the torch to Josh, allowing patients to continue with someone who shares not just his training, but his compassion. |
| Learn More About These Stories And Our Team At BMC → |
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Proud To Celebrate Our LGBTQIA+ Community |
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We’re #BMCProud to have joined this year’s Boston Pride Parade in celebration of our LGBTQIA+ community. Pride Month is a powerful reminder to show up for one another and honor the strength that comes from inclusion and belonging.
Thank you to everyone who walked with us, helped organize, and uplifted this unforgettable day. See More Photos From Our Pride Parade Recap.
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Proud to Celebrate Our LGBTQIA+ Community |
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We’re #BMCProud to have joined this year’s Boston Pride Parade in celebration of our LGBTQIA+ community. Pride Month is a powerful reminder to show up for one another and honor the strength that comes from inclusion and belonging.
Thank you to everyone who walked with us, helped organize, and uplifted this unforgettable day. See More Photos From Our Pride Parade Recap. |
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Celebrating The Spirit of Freedom During Juneteenth With Embrace Boston |
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BMC was honored to support and attend two events hosted by Embrace Boston, a community organization that works to dismantle structural racism through arts and culture, community, research, and policy.
On June 18-20, we were thrilled to be an integral part of Embrace Honors Juneteenth, an evening of spiritual and gospel music performances that paid tribute to the remarkable Bostonians who are committed to a more equitable city for all. The Embrace Ideas Festival is a multi-day celebration of ideas rooted in arts, culture, and public scholarship. Held annually in the lead-up to Juneteenth, the festival brings together leaders from Boston and beyond to amplify anti-racism and envision a more equitable future. This year’s event was another meaningful opportunity for BMC to support our mission and join in the Juneteenth celebrations.
BMC also joined the festivities at this year’s Freedom Day Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 21, at the Shattuck Picnic Grove in Franklin Park (See photos from the event). Our colleagues celebrated the holiday and shared information about BMC programs and services, like resources for diabetes care, with still significantly impacts so many families. Explore The Juneteenth Events We Proudly Supported.
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Celebrating The Spirit of Freedom During Juneteenth With Embrace Boston |
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BMC was honored to support and attend two events hosted by Embrace Boston, a community organization that works to dismantle structural racism through arts and culture, community, research, and policy.
On June 18-20, we were thrilled to be an integral part of Embrace Honors Juneteenth, an evening of spiritual and gospel music performances that paid tribute to the remarkable Bostonians who are committed to a more equitable city for all. The Embrace Ideas Festival is a multi-day celebration of ideas rooted in arts, culture, and public scholarship. Held annually in the lead-up to Juneteenth, the festival brings together leaders from Boston and beyond to amplify anti-racism and envision a more equitable future. This year’s event was another meaningful opportunity for BMC to support our mission and join in the Juneteenth celebrations.
BMC also joined the festivities at this year’s Freedom Day Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 21, at the Shattuck Picnic Grove in Franklin Park (See photos from the event). Our colleagues celebrated the holiday and shared information about BMC programs and services, like resources for diabetes care, with still significantly impacts so many families. Explore The Juneteenth Events We Proudly Supported. |
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Fresh From the Rooftop: BMC Farmer’s Market Is Back This Summer |
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This summer, we're excited to bring fresh, local produce from our rooftop farms to our patients, staff, and community through the BMC Farmer’s Market!
BMC’s rooftop farm produces over 10,000 pounds of organic fruits, vegetables, and herbs each year for BMCHS patients — including more than 30 different crops, like Aji Dulce peppers, bok choy, and callaloo, many of which are culturally significant to the communities we serve. While the average vegetable travels 1,500 to 2,000 miles to reach a family’s table, BMC’s produce travels only hundreds of feet, dramatically reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring food reaches our community fresh and fast.
Stop by this season and enjoy nutritious food straight from our rooftop! Learn More About Our Farmer's Market.
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Fresh From the Rooftop: BMC Farmer’s Market Is Back This Summer |
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This summer, we're excited to bring fresh, local produce from our rooftop farms to our patients, staff, and community through the BMC Farmer’s Market!
BMC’s rooftop farm produces over 10,000 pounds of organic fruits, vegetables, and herbs each year for BMCHS patients — including more than 30 different crops, like Aji Dulce peppers, bok choy, and callaloo, many of which are culturally significant to the communities we serve. While the average vegetable travels 1,500 to 2,000 miles to reach a family’s table, BMC’s produce travels only hundreds of feet, dramatically reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring food reaches our community fresh and fast.
Stop by this season and enjoy nutritious food straight from our rooftop! Learn More About Our Farmer's Market. |
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BMC Joins Conversation On Innovation, Leadership, And Mental Health In Our Community |
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This month, at a Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce's Women's Network event, Rachel Felix, SVP and Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at BMC Health System, sat down with Dr. Melissa Gilliam, President of Boston University, to explore pressing issues in higher education, opportunities for future collaboration and research innovation, and to offer leadership advice to future women leaders. The discussion also engaged Boston’s business community, who asked insightful questions about navigating mental health, staying true to organizational mission and values, and pivoting along their career journeys.
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BMC Joins Conversation On Innovation, Leadership, And Mental Health In Our Community |
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This month, at a Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce's Women's Network event, Rachel Felix, SVP and Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at BMC Health System, sat down with Dr. Melissa Gilliam, President of Boston University, to explore pressing issues in higher education, opportunities for future collaboration and research innovation, and to offer leadership advice to future women leaders. The discussion also engaged Boston’s business community, who asked insightful questions about navigating mental health, staying true to organizational mission and values, and pivoting along their career journeys. |
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Celebrating Community Leadership: Petrina Martin Cherry Honored As A Leader of Change
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This month, Petrina Martin Cherry, vice president of community engagement and external affairs at Boston Medical Center Health System, was honored with the Leader of Change Award at the 18th Annual Bostonians for Youth Gala hosted by Trinity Boston Connects.
The event’s theme, Healing Can’t Wait, echoes Petrina’s mission at BMC — meeting people where they are and building trust through access, equity, and action. Known for her expertise in building strong, collaborative relationships, Petrina has been instrumental in developing community-based programs that provide access to healthcare for under-resourced communities, raise awareness of sickle cell disease, support BMC’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout, and promote mental health and women’s health, fostering sustainable empowerment in historically underserved neighborhoods.
Petrina is also being recognized by YW Boston at the 30th Annual Academy of Women Achievers, honoring leaders who are building a more inclusive Boston where all women can thrive.
This recognition reflects our shared work at BMC—delivering care purposefully and standing alongside the communities we serve. Learn More About Petrina’s Work And Recognition.
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Celebrating Community Leadership: Petrina Martin Cherry Honored As A Leader of Change
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This month, Petrina Martin Cherry, vice president of community engagement and external affairs at Boston Medical Center Health System, was honored with the Leader of Change Award at the 18th Annual Bostonians for Youth Gala hosted by Trinity Boston Connects.
The event’s theme, Healing Can’t Wait, echoes Petrina’s mission at BMC — meeting people where they are and building trust through access, equity, and action. Known for her expertise in building strong, collaborative relationships, Petrina has been instrumental in developing community-based programs that provide access to healthcare for under-resourced communities, raise awareness of sickle cell disease, support BMC’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout, and promote mental health and women’s health, fostering sustainable empowerment in historically underserved neighborhoods.
Petrina is also being recognized by YW Boston at the 30th Annual Academy of Women Achievers, honoring leaders who are building a more inclusive Boston where all women can thrive.
This recognition reflects our shared work at BMC—delivering care purposefully and standing alongside the communities we serve. Learn More About Petrina’s Work And Recognition. |
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BMC In The News |
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We’re excited to spotlight recent media coverage that features BMC experts sharing insights on timely health topics. From national outlets to local platforms, these stories reflect our commitment to improving care, advancing equity, and supporting our patients and communities every step of the way. |
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A Better Way to Repair Joints: Understanding Arthroscopy
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“We can do a lot more now than we could 20 years ago. You get better visualization, and you can fix more types of tears in different locations arthroscopically than you can with open surgery.”
- BMC Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Xinning Li, MD, FAOA, FAAOS explains in a WebMD article |
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The One Grocery Item Geriatricians Avoid to Live a Long, Healthy Life
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Dr. Hollis Day, the chief of geriatrics at Boston Medical Center, shared that the more balanced a diet someone has, the less they will have to depend on supplements to meet their nutrient needs. “That includes getting calcium through calcium-rich foods rather than supplements. The body absorbs it better and it’s definitely tastier.” MSN |
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I was overwhelmed with the whole process of my enlarged prostate. They were honest, professional, and passionate. I'm 100% satisfied with the end result. Can't say enough good about the whole department. I went in seriously hurting and came out a new man... Can't thank everyone enough for the whole experience!!!! Thank you to everyone in the urology department |
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I was overwhelmed with the whole process of my enlarged prostate. They were honest, professional, and passionate. I'm 100% satisfied with the end result. Can't say enough good about the whole department. I went in seriously hurting and came out a new man... Can't thank everyone enough for the whole experience!!!! Thank you to everyone in the urology department |
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“In Your Words” features patient comments from patient experience outreach surveys. We appreciate your time completing these surveys and for sharing your thoughts with us. The information gathered in these surveys is used to learn where we can improve, to continue to provide excellent care to all. |
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