New Radiation Technology Brings Advanced Cancer Care Closer to Home

Thanks to the generosity of donors across the High Country, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center has installed a new state-of-the-art Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator (LINAC), bringing the latest radiation therapy technology to patients close to home.

The new LINAC replaces the center's previous machine, which has delivered nearly 80,000 radiation treatments over the past 18 years. While that technology served patients well, the Varian TrueBeam offers state-of-the-art radiation therapy with HyperSight, a high-speed, high-quality imaging system that gives clinicians a clearer view of tumors for more precise treatment planning.

Combined with the PerfectPitch treatment table, the system improves treatment accuracy, better protects surrounding healthy tissue by reducing unnecessary radiation exposure, supports more personalized treatment plans, and enhances safety for patients receiving both conventional radiation therapy and stereotactic treatments. These advancements mean patients can receive safer, more effective cancer care close to home without having to travel off the mountain.

"The success of this campaign reflects both the generosity of our donors and our shared commitment to advancing cancer care in the High Country," said Rob Hudspeth, President of the Appalachian Healthcare Foundation and Chief External Affairs Officer for UNC Health Appalachian. "This technology significantly enhances our ability to provide precise, leading-edge treatment -- and we are sincerely grateful to all who contributed to making this important investment in the future of care for our patients and community."

The campaign to fund the LINAC was inspired by cancer survivor Chris Petti, who celebrated 25 years since her cancer diagnosis by making a $1 million lead gift. After receiving treatment at the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, Chris wanted to express her gratitude for the exceptional care she received while helping ensure future patients have access to the most advanced cancer treatment close to home. Her gift came with one request: it had to be matched. An anonymous donor answered the challenge with a matching gift honoring the legacy of Dr. Herman Godwin, the Cancer Center's founding oncologist.

Together with the support of many generous donors, the campaign raised $5 million. In addition to purchasing the new LINAC, the funds made it possible to renovate much of the Cancer Center, including exam rooms and the new linear accelerator vault.

In recognition of Chris Petti's extraordinary generosity and the compassion she has shown to fellow cancer patients, the new linear accelerator has been lovingly named "Chris."

"We wanted to call it 'Chris' to honor Chris Petti's overwhelming compassion for patients undergoing treatment," Hudspeth said. "Chris has a big heart. When she came to see the new LINAC a few weeks ago, she was beaming with joy. Her generosity will have a lasting impact on countless patients and families for years to come."

Pictured above: 

Dr. Daniel Fass joins donor Chris Petti and Rob Hudspeth as they visit the new Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator at the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center.

Radiation therapists at Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center were proud to unveil "Chris" a new, state-of-the-art Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator (LINAC).