The intimate size of Ridley-Tree Cancer Center’s Solvang branch means the employees who work there care for patients every day who are their friends and neighbors. All 23 members at this location have the opportunity to get to know each patient personally. “Our team tries to find a way to connect with every patient. They go above and beyond to make sure they and their families feel supported every step of the way,” explains physician assistant Andrea Kremsreiter. Longtime medical oncologist with the Solvang branch, Thomas Woliver, MD notes, that “Without our staff, we would not be able to administer the most advanced cancer treatments in the Santa Ynez Valley, which includes clinical trials, oncology nutrition and genetic counseling.” Medical oncologist Juliet Penn, MD sees her work home as a place of intense joy and love, a refuge when a cancer diagnosis sometimes feels scary and full of loss. “Being treated in a place of grace, love and happiness can be as important as the medicine,” she remarks. For newer physicians like medical oncologist Eric Bank, MD, the team nature of the Solvang branch inspires him. “It is truly a pleasure to be a part of this team,” comments Dr. Bank. “As we care for our patients. I am proud to work with a group of people who are so dedicated, skilled, humanistic, and team-oriented, because our mission is a very worthwhile one.”
Team members from Solvang, left to right: Patti Nielson, Victoria Mandujano, Kimberly Herrera, Andrea Kremsreiter, PA, Diane Bratt, Meagan Lovett, Vilma Gonzalez, Erik Bank, MD, April Calderon, Juliet Penn, MD, Jenny Honafius, Tammy Rayas, Monica Escalera, Candice Laura.
Not pictured: Laura Albrecht, Tricia Corman, Gabby Diaz, Maria Flamenco-Lomas, Diego Flores, Mary Fox, Kim Lewis, Jessica Lopez, Socorro Williams and Tom Woliver, MD.