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Cancer treatment at AVRTC goes well beyond radiation therapy. Below, you can find a number of free resources designed for past, current, and future patients.
Cancer treatment takes a toll on the body, which is why all our patients, both past and present, have access to an in-house dietitian who can help create a dietary strategy centered around your unique treatment and recovery.
For more information on our free dietitian services stop by our front desk or nursing station.
Kayla K. Scherf, MSFCS, MSIHM, RDN, LDN
Kayla is originally from Ohio, where she earned her bachelor’s degree
from Kent State University and completed her master’s degree and dietetic internship at Bowling Green State University. She is currently enrolled in the School of Health Professions at Rutgers University, pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition.
Kayla has been a registered dietitian for 18 years and has extensive experience in oncology nutrition, working in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She is passionate about helping individuals optimize their health and well-being through nutrition and evidence-based care.
Outside of her professional work, Kayla enjoys running, yoga, traveling, cooking, and spending time outdoors.
Before, during, and after your cancer treatment, it is important to give your mental and physical health the attention it deserves. AVRTC offers free in-person and virtual yoga classes each week that you can participate in regardless of experience level.
In-person Yoga
Sundays from 3:00pm – 4:00pm at Alaska Dance Theatre with Andrea Cummings
550 E 33rd Ave., Anchorage, AK 99503
Virtual Yoga
Margo Sorum Wednesday Class on Zoom @ 12:00pm
Margo has been teaching yoga since 1999, but it
was her experience with Suzi Drinen that motivated her to work with cancer patients. Margo was by Suzi’s side throughout her cancer journey, all the way to the end, and Suzi’s authenticity and love of life inspired Margo to help other cancer patients find peace and freedom through the beauty of yoga. You can read about Suzi’s journey and the Suz Fund here.
Margo is a licensed massage therapist, certified yoga therapist and natural posture specialist. She loves helping clients understand the underlying movement patterns causing pain, discomfort and disease. Education is at the heart of each yoga class giving clients the ability to continue the healing process beyond the yoga mat.
TEXT Margo @ (907) 947-2030 | EMAIL: BLISSYOGAWITHMARGO@GMAIL.COM
Andrea Cummings Sunday Class at Alaska Dance Theatre @ 3:00pm
Along with being a mother,
herbalist and health coach, Andrea is a cancer initiate. When she received confirmation of breast cancer in 2018 she went into “research mode.” Her question was straightforward: How could I keep my body and mind as healthy as possible while navigating cancer treatments?
Her findings led to many holistic healing modalities including yoga and qigong. Andrea had dabbled in yoga for many years but the cancer diagnosis rooted her in her practice and eventually led her to become a certified yoga guide.
Andrea is passionate about moving her body, maintaining mobility, strength and flexibility and guiding others to do the same in gentle ways that feel nourishing to the physical and mental bodies. Somatic practices have brought her to know and trust her body in profound ways.
It is her true joy to share this practice, support other cancer initiates and relay the message that you are not alone.
TEXT Andrea @ (907) 250-9169 | EMAIL: ANDREA21482@GMAIL COM
AVRTC partners with the American Cancer Society to provide transportation aid to cancer patients in Alaska.
This program provides transportation to and from treatment for cancer patients who do not have access to a vehicle or who are unable to drive themselves. It is available in the Anchorage, Mat-Su, Fairbanks, and Kenai areas.
Given that drivers are volunteers, not medical professionals, you must be able to sit, stand, and walk without assistance; otherwise, an adult caregiver must accompany you.
To schedule a ride, call 1 (800) 227-2345.
Please note: If you would like to take part in this program, please submit a request at least four business days prior to the date you will need transportation.
For more information on the programs offered through the Alaska Chapter of the American Cancer Society, including support resources and events, visit this link.
PHONE: 907.276.2400
FAX: 907.276.4888
2841 DeBarr Road,
Suite 100, Building A Anchorage, AK 99508
PHONE: 907.745.2900
FAX: 907.745.2999
PHONE: 907.276.2400
FAX: 907.276.4888
2841 DeBarr Road,
Suite 100, Building A Anchorage, AK 99508
Rachel Turney was born and raised in Alaska and earned her bachelor’s degree in health sciences from the University of Alaska Anchorage. Her medical work experience inspired her to pursue further education in patient care, leading her to the University of Washington MEDEX Northwest Physician Assistant Program in Anchorage, where she earned a master’s degree in clinical health services.
During physician assistant school, Rachel completed a clinical rotation at AVRTC, where she developed an appreciation for the unique blend of medicine and physics involved in radiation oncology and the opportunity to care for fellow Alaskans. She is honored to return to AVRTC as a member of the provider team, caring for patients at both the Anchorage and Valley locations. She looks forward to partnering with patients and their physicians to provide compassionate, high-quality care.
Outside of the clinic, Rachel enjoys exploring Alaska’s outdoors, especially the mountains.