Since the opening of the Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center on the Central Peninsula Hospital campus in Soldotna more than 2 years ago, cancer patients have not had to endure the journey to Anchorage to receive treatment away from their homes and loved ones.

The Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center held an elegant patient appreciation luncheon on Sept. 17.

Jennifer Bostelman is the front office coordinator.

“We have had such great support from this community and today more than 101 folks showed up for lunch and to show their support and express their gratitude that we are here. Being close to home for cancer treatment always helps the healing process, being able to go home and sleep in your own bed in your own home around your family, friends, support group and pets makes a huge difference,” said Bostelman.

Speaking of pets, Bostelman motioned to a dog busy working on a chew bone.

“That’s Miss Elsie Blond, she is a celebrity here, she’s our pet therapy canine and everyone in this community knows her. She is the best girl in the world, and don’t take my word for it. Just ask any patient who has come here,” giggled Bostelman.

“She’s amazing! I have seen it with my own eyes. A patient that came in and was experiencing some high blood pressure so (they) couldn’t start treatment here. She sat down with Elsie and pet her behind the ears and in just a matter of 20 minutes the patient was able to do her treatment and not have to go to the emergency room to get additional medication. It was that simple and that effective,” she said very seriously.

Staying on top of developing treatment and new technology is a signature at the center says Bostelman.

“Everyday you will see our doctors, who are the elite of their specialty and always staying up with the latest and greatest things being done through radiation oncology,” Bostelman said.

Everyone is welcome to learn more by visiting the Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center or going to their website at peninsularadiation.com, calling the center at 262-7762 or emailing Jenn@peninsularadiation.com

“I love my job the people here and our patients are my family and friends. I get to know everyone who comes here and when they leave here, I miss them like any loved one. So today for me was like a family reunion seeing old friends and feeling happy they are doing well,” Bostelman concluded.