Illinois CancerCare: Leading the Way in Cancer Care Since 1977
For nearly five decades, Illinois CancerCare has set the standard for community based oncology – bringing world class treatment, groundbreaking research, and unwavering hope to patients and families across central and western Illinois. Since our founding in 1977 by Dr. Stephen A. Cullinan, and strengthened soon after by the leadership of Dr. James B. Gerstner, our practice has been defined by innovation, vision, and an unshakeable commitment to care.
From the very beginning, Illinois CancerCare was among the first cancer treatment private practices in the nation to take physicians, nurses, and advanced treatments directly into outlying communities – ensuring patients received state‑of‑the‑art cancer care close to home. This community-based healthcare model, established in the earliest years of practice, helped pioneer our 14 clinic locations delivering community‑based oncology to central and western, Illinois.
Our history is rich with groundbreaking research, quality patient care, and many important firsts, reflecting a legacy built on forward‑thinking leadership and unwavering dedication. Today, Illinois CancerCare stands as an award‑winning national leader in community cancer care, recognized for excellence in clinical trials, innovation, and high‑quality outcomes.
With a care team that has grown to include more than 22 physicians, 45+ nurse practitioners, 100+ oncology‑certified nurses, and hundreds of dedicated staff members across multiple clinic locations, Illinois CancerCare continues to lead the fight against cancer with expertise, compassion, and cutting‑edge treatment options.
Our commitment to research – including participation in over 100+ clinical trials at any given time – ensures that patients receive access to the most advanced therapies available, right here at home. Since 1983, much of this work has been coordinated through the prestigious NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP), reinforcing our role as research leaders, improving survival and quality of life for patients across the region.
Illinois CancerCare remains a place of hope, progress, and possibility – continuing to push the boundaries of what community cancer care can be. We are proud of our past, driven by our mission and committed to remaining the region’s premier cancer center for generations to come.
Milestones That Shaped Our Mission
From one physician’s vision to a regional network of care, this timeline traces the defining moments in Illinois CancerCare’s history and its longstanding commitment to research, access, and patient-centered treatment.
Dr. Stephen A. Cullinan completed his oncology fellowship at the Mayo Clinic before returning to his roots in central Illinois to establish his medical practice, Oncology Hematology Associates of Central Illinois, at Methodist Medical Center. Demonstrating his forward thinking approach, Dr. Cullinan quickly launched an innovative outreach clinic model – first bringing care to patients in Pekin, then expanding to Bloomington and Pontiac the following year.
Dr. Stephen A. Cullinan was among the pioneers who helped establish a groundbreaking research partnership with the Mayo Clinic through the North Central Cancer Treatment Group (NCCTG). The Illinois Oncology Research Association (IORA) soon emerged as one of the original NCCTG member institutions, championing the belief that community settings were the ideal place to conduct clinical trials – expanding access to cutting edge cancer prevention and treatment strategies for a broader range of patients.
In 1979, Dr. James B. Gerstner, a fellow central Illinoisan and Mayo Clinic–trained hematologist and medical oncologist, joined the practice, further strengthening its research‑driven mission. At that time, nearly all cancer research was still concentrated in large academic medical centers, making Illinois CancerCare’s community‑based research model both innovative and transformative. The very first Peoria patient was enrolled in a cancer clinical trial through this program, marking the beginning of a legacy that continues to shape patient care today.
Illinois CancerCare: Milestones in Growth and Excellence (1980–1989)
The 1980s marked a decade of extraordinary growth, talent, and innovation for Illinois CancerCare, solidifying our reputation as a leader in community based oncology.
1980
Dr. Rick Mundis joined the practice after completing his medical oncology training at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine. His arrival strengthened the group’s clinical expertise as clinics expanded into Galesburg and Macomb.
1981
Continuing to bring advanced care closer to home, the practice established new clinics in Spring Valley, Princeton, Ottawa, and Peru – broadening access for patients across central Illinois.
1982
Dr. Michael Veeder joined the team, bringing exceptional training from Yale University School of Medicine and a medical oncology fellowship at the Dana-Farber Cancer Center at Harvard University. This year also saw further outreach as clinics opened in Hopedale, Carthage, and Canton.
1983
A defining milestone: Oncology Hematology Associates partnered with Methodist Medical Center to become one of the nation’s first Community Clinical Oncology Programs (CCOP). This pioneering partnership accelerated access to NCI supported cancer prevention, control, and treatment trials – bringing cutting edge research directly into local communities.
1986
Dr. Kugler joined the practice from a Montana physicians’ group, bringing advanced training from the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, including expertise in bone marrow transplantation.
1988
Growing demand and community need led to further expansion with newly established clinic affiliations in Eureka.
1989
Dr. Allen Vukov strengthened the practice’s Mayo Clinic tradition when he joined after graduating from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria and completing his hematology training at Mayo Clinic.
Illinois CancerCare: Advancing into a New Era (1990–1999)
The 1990s marked a period of continued expansion, scientific advancement, and the arrival of highly trained physicians who helped shape Illinois CancerCare into the respected, research driven organization it is today.
1990
The practice entered a new chapter with its move to the Methodist Atrium Building, creating enhanced space for patient care, clinical services, and future program development.
1992
Dr. James Knost joined Oncology Hematology Associates after practicing in Tennessee and gaining valuable experience at the National Cancer Institute following his medical oncology fellowship at Vanderbilt University. This year also saw the opening of a new clinic in Kewanee, extending specialized cancer care to an even broader region.
1994
Dr. James Knost joined Oncology Hematology Associates after practicing in Tennessee and gaining valuable experience at the National Cancer Institute following his medical oncology fellowship at Vanderbilt University. This year also saw the opening of a new clinic in Kewanee, extending specialized cancer care to an even broader region.
- Dr. Paul Fishkin, who brought experience as a U.S. Army physician and advanced training from his oncology and hematology fellowships at Letterman Army Medical Center in San Francisco.
- Dr. Francois Geoffroy, who strengthened the practice’s research expertise with fellowship training from the National Cancer Institute.
- That same year, the practice deepened its research leadership by establishing a Phase II cancer treatment research affiliation with the University of Chicago – expanding access to innovative clinical trials for local patients.
1999
Dr. Srinivas Jujjavarapu joined the team after completing fellowship training in oncology and hematology at Michigan State University, followed by specialized bone marrow transplant training at Loyola University Medical School. His arrival further broadened the practice’s depth in complex cancer care.
Illinois CancerCare: Building a Comprehensive Cancer Center (2001–2022)
The early 2000s through the 2020s marked a period of remarkable growth, transformation, and innovation for Illinois CancerCare. During these years, the practice expanded its clinical expertise, broadened its geographic reach, strengthened its research leadership, and advanced its long standing mission of delivering world class cancer care close to home.
2001–2007: Expanding Expertise and Honoring Founders
2001
Dr. Sachdev Thomas joined the practice after completing his oncology and hematology fellowship at Loyola University Medical Center, bringing additional depth to a growing team dedicated to exceptional patient care.
2002
Illinois CancerCare welcomed Dr. Nguyet Le‑Lindqwister, who joined from a Las Vegas practice after completing oncology and hematology fellowships at UCLA.
The practice also celebrated the arrival of its first nurse practitioners, marking a significant milestone in multidisciplinary team growth and expanded patient support across all clinic locations.
2004
A major turning point came with the move from the Methodist Atrium Building to the state‑of‑the‑art Peoria Cancer Center on Route 91. This new location fulfilled the vision of creating a truly comprehensive cancer center in central Illinois. The facility brought together Oncology Hematology Associates, an OSF outreach radiation center, and a satellite office of the Cancer Center for Healthy Living—along with full laboratory services and on‑site CT, X‑ray, and Dexa imaging.
2006
Dr. Diane J. Prager joined the practice following more than a decade in practice at UCLA. Originally from South Africa, she completed her oncology training at UCLA and added significant expertise to the team.
2007
Dr. Patrick L. Gomez and Dr. Pankaj Kumar joined to establish a full time presence in the Bloomington clinics – Dr. Gomez board certified in medical oncology and Dr. Kumar certified in both medical oncology and hematology.
The practice also marked an important transition this year as its visionary founders stepped into retirement.
- Dr. Stephen Cullinan, whose community‑based outreach model revolutionized access to cancer care across central Illinois, retired in November.
- Dr. James Gerstner, his long‑time partner in advancing clinical trials and modern therapies, retired in December.
Peoria’s radiology services expanded this same year to offer PET/CT imaging, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient convenience.
2008–2012: Strengthening Research Leadership and Regional Presence
2008
Dr. Gregory J. Gerstner joined Illinois CancerCare, continuing the family legacy with board certifications in internal medicine, medical oncology, and hematology.
Dr. Shawn M. Seibert, board certified in internal medicine, also joined as the group’s dedicated hospitalist, covering hospitalized Illinois CancerCare patients on weekends.
This year also marked a significant organizational milestone as Oncology Hematology Associates adopted its new name – Illinois CancerCare, P.C. – reflecting its broad range of services and regional identity. The practice expanded yet again, opening patient services in Monmouth at OSF Holy Family Medical Center and partnering with Fox River Cancer Center.
2009
Growing patient needs prompted further expansion of the Peru outreach clinics across multiple locations in the region.
2010
Three gynecologic oncology specialists from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria—Dr. Rebecca Byler Dann, Dr. Kenneth A. Hodel, and Dr. Salvatore J. LoCoco—began seeing patients at Illinois CancerCare. They offered comprehensive care by seeing patients at the Peoria Cancer Center and performing surgeries at local Peoria hospitals.
2011
Illinois CancerCare physicians began providing medical oncology and hematology care at Valley Regional Cancer Center, expanding services along the I 80 corridor and offering on site imaging and lab services for convenient, comprehensive care.
2012
Illinois CancerCare, P.C. first achieved QOPI Certification in 2012. Because the certification is granted in three year cycles, our practice has undergone repeated evaluations and recertification processes and we are proud to remain QOPI Certified today.
QOPI® Certification is a national quality assurance designation awarded by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) through its Quality Oncology Practice Initiative. It recognizes oncology practices that meet rigorous standards for patient safety, quality of care, and continuous performance improvement.
Illinois CancerCare’s Community Clinical Oncology Program (CCOP) also ranked among the top clinical trial enrollers in the nation within the newly formed Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology.
This year welcomed Drs. Jane Liu and Madhuri Bajaj – both triple boarded in internal medicine, medical oncology, and hematology—and marked the retirements of Drs. John Kugler and S. Jujjavarapu.
2013–2016: Investing in Innovation, Facilities, and Future Care
2013
Illinois CancerCare received the prestigious Clinical Trials Participation Award from the Conquer Cancer Foundation of ASCO—one of only seven community oncology practices nationwide to receive this honor, and one of the few ever recognized more than once.
The practice continued to grow as:
- Dr. Allen Vukov retired.
- Dr. Gary MacVicar joined with triple board certification.
- Dr. John McClean’s Galesburg oncology practice officially merged with Illinois CancerCare.
Pharmacy capabilities have expanded, with delivery vehicles now serving Peoria and surrounding clinics.
2014
A major expansion added 20,000 square feet to the Peoria facility, enhancing imaging, laboratory, and gynecologic oncology services. New facilities opened in Galesburg, and construction began on a new center in Bloomington.
Illinois CancerCare’s research program received one of only 37 national NCORP grants, bringing major federal support for clinical trials. Dr. Jane Liu became the local principal investigator for Heartland NCORP.
Radiology services expanded with dedicated CT and PET/CT scanners in Peoria and a new CT scanner in Galesburg.
This year also saw staffing changes, including Dr. Thomas’ departure to California and the arrival of Dr. Andras Ladanyi to support gynecologic oncology care.
2015
A new Bloomington cancer center opened, offering integrated laboratory, radiology, and chemotherapy infusion services.
Illinois CancerCare’s research program received one of only 37 national NCORP grants, bringing major federal support for clinical trials. Dr. Jane Liu became the local principal investigator for Heartland NCORP.
Dr. Srinivas Jujjavarapu returned to the practice, and Dr. McClean retired after decades of service.
Illinois CancerCare again earned QOPI® Certification, and pharmacy services expanded to Galesburg and Bloomington.
2016
This year brought transitions for the gynecologic oncology team, with the retirement of Dr. Ken Hodel and the relocation of Dr. Andras Ladanyi. Dr. Nadia Rehman joined, bringing triple board certification.
Retail pharmacy services also expanded to the Peru clinic.
2016 – URAC Specialty Pharmacy Accreditation Achieved
In 2016, Illinois CancerCare achieved an important national milestone when it received URAC Specialty Pharmacy Accreditation, officially announced on September 13, 2016. This accreditation is awarded by URAC, a leading independent healthcare quality organization based in Washington, D.C.
What this Accreditation Means:
URAC’s Specialty Pharmacy Accreditation recognizes pharmacies that meet rigorous national standards for quality, patient safety, specialty medication management, and high‑level clinical support. It evaluates everything from pharmacy operations to patient care processes, medication handling, customer service, and clinical oversight—ensuring patients receive safe, effective, and well‑coordinated specialty medication services.
This achievement underscored Illinois CancerCare’s commitment to delivering high quality oncology pharmacy services and ensuring patients have trusted access to the complex medications required in modern cancer treatment.
2018–2022: Innovation, Philanthropy, and Continued Growth
2018
Through the generosity of the Theresa Tracey Strive to Survive organization, Illinois CancerCare opened its Community Pancreatic Cancer Screening Clinic, offering free genetic testing for first‑degree relatives of pancreatic cancer patients. The Pekin clinic also added retail pharmacy services and a GE Revolution EVO CT scanner.
2019
Heartland NCORP received renewed federal funding through 2025, with Illinois CancerCare serving as a core member.
The practice opened a new Dixon clinic and welcomed two new physicians, Dr. Wenqing Zhang and Dr. Kimberly Ku. Both Peoria and Galesburg upgraded radiology equipment, including new CT and PET/CT scanners with advanced technology.
A Legacy of Growth, Partnership & Commitment to Our Patients
2021
Tribute Garden: A Sanctuary of Hope
In 2021, the Illinois CancerCare Foundation created the Path of Hope Tribute Garden, transforming a vision of healing into a physical place of peace. Designed as a sanctuary for celebration, remembrance, reflection, and rest, the garden offers patients, caregivers, staff, and visitors a comforting refuge surrounded by natural beauty.
At its heart is a simple truth:
Every day that we challenge cancer is a victory.
The Path of Hope provides meaningful ways to honor loved ones, those bravely fighting, those who have inspired us, and those we remember with love. By supporting the Tribute Garden, our community builds a pathway of hope for families currently facing cancer, ensuring that no one walks alone.
Illinois CancerCare welcomed Dr. M. Fahad B. Asad serving patients in Peoria and Dixon and Dr. Vijay K. Damarla serving patients in Bloomington and Ottawa – strengthening access to expert cancer care across the regions we serve.
2022–2026: Expanding Access, Advancing Care & Strengthening Partnerships
2022
Growing Local Access to Care
The opening of the Washington Retail Pharmacy in 2022 marked another step forward in delivering convenient, patient‑centered support. By bringing essential medication services closer to home, Illinois CancerCare strengthened its commitment to reducing barriers and enhancing the patient experience.
2023
Enhanced Pharmacy Services
In 2023, Ottawa Retail Pharmacy services were added, further extending the reach of our comprehensive approach to care. These expansions ensure patients across central Illinois have seamless access to the medications and guidance they need throughout treatment.
Expanding Clinical Expertise
Illinois CancerCare welcomed three new physicians whose diverse specialties strengthened care across the region:
- Dr. Mari Baker, providing expertise in Cancer Survivor Care and Hematology at our Peoria, Pekin, Bloomington and Washington Clinics.
- Dr. Nooreen Hussain, joining the Oncology and Hematology Inpatient Hospital Team
- Dr. Kimberly Katiyar, serving patients at the Galesburg and Peoria Illinois CancerCare clinics.
2024
Building Stronger Partnerships
2024 became a landmark year for strategic collaboration as Illinois CancerCare partnered with the US Oncology Network (USON), supported by McKesson. This partnership elevates our ability to deliver advanced therapies, expand clinical resources, and remain at the forefront of quality community‑based cancer care.
2025
Innovation Through Research & Collaboration
In 2025, Illinois CancerCare deepened its research leadership through a new partnership with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), one of the world’s premier cancer research organizations. This collaboration opens expanded pathways for groundbreaking clinical trials and innovative treatment options.
Expanding Specialized Patient Care
Illinois CancerCare strengthened its clinical team with the addition of two new physicians:
- Dr. Joseph Peters, serving Hematology and Cancer Survivor Care patients in both Canton and Peoria Clinics.
- Dr. Sudhir Sekhon, providing Oncology and Hematology care for patients at the Illinois CancerCare Ottawa and Peru clinics.
2026
A Global Milestone in Clinical Research
Illinois CancerCare enrolled the first patient in the world on the Phase 3 pivotal trial:
PF 08634404 | 1L NSCLC Phase 3 Symbiotic Lung 01 (C6461001)—
an innovative study that reinforces our commitment to advancing care for patients with lung cancer.
Technology Advancements
As new partnerships and research initiatives evolved, Illinois CancerCare invested heavily in new technologies designed to improve diagnostics, patient comfort, and clinical precision – ensuring our teams can deliver the safest, most effective care possible.
A New Era of Excellence
With continued expansion, innovative therapies, and strong organizational partnerships, Illinois CancerCare enters 2026 positioned as a national leader in community oncology—driven by a singular mission:
to provide exceptional care, meaningful hope, and life changing advancements for every patient we serve.
Global First Enrollment in Pivotal Lung Cancer Trial
Illinois CancerCare made international history by enrolling the first patient in the world on a groundbreaking Phase 3 clinical trial for advanced lung cancer. This innovative study represents a major step forward in expanding treatment options and advancing cancer research for patients everywhere.
Strengthening Cancer Survivor Care & Hematology Services
Illinois CancerCare welcomed Dr. Daniel Montemayor, who joined the Cancer Survivor Care and Hematology team, serving patients in both the Peoria and Galesburg clinics.
A Continuing Commitment
Each milestone – from healing gardens to global research leadership – reflects our ongoing dedication to growth, partnership, and most importantly, our patients.
With more than 50 years of experience in leading cancer treatment and cutting‑edge research, our team of 22 expert physicians delivers trusted, innovative care grounded in proven expertise and a longstanding commitment to excellence.
Together, they tell a powerful story:
Illinois CancerCare is more than a place of treatment –
it is a place of hope, innovation, and unwavering compassion.