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A Night of Giving and Gratitude: HHO Celebrates and Supports Hunterdon Health Foundation at Crystal Evening 2025

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology (HHO) proudly joined the Hunterdon Health Foundation and hundreds of community members for a memorable evening at the 2025 Crystal Evening on Friday, September 26th, at SteelStacks in Bethlehem, PA. The event was a tremendous success, bringing together friends, healthcare partners, and supporters to raise vital funds for Hunterdon Health’s mission of delivering exceptional, compassionate care across the region.

An Evening of Inspiration and Generosity

This year’s Crystal Evening honored Pro-Activity – A Human Achievement Company as the 2025 Spirit of Hunterdon Honoree, recognizing their outstanding contributions to community health and human performance. Their founding of the Main Street Half Marathon of Hunterdon has inspired countless residents to pursue active, connected lifestyles and embodies the same spirit of resilience and wellness that defines our community.

Guests enjoyed an elegant reception featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, gourmet food stations, and silent auctions, followed by a high-energy concert performance by The Nerds that kept the celebration going late into the evening.

A Shared Commitment to Care

Representatives from Hunterdon Hematology Oncology were honored to attend and support the Foundation’s efforts to strengthen local healthcare programs and patient services. As a longstanding partner of Hunterdon Health, HHO remains committed to advancing cancer care and wellness in our community.

“Crystal Evening is a celebration of what makes this community truly special—its people,” said the HHO Executive Director. “Each year, we’re reminded that together we can make a lasting difference for our patients and their families. We are proud to stand alongside Hunterdon Health Foundation and the many supporters who make these achievements possible.”

Supporting a Stronger, Healthier Future

Funds raised through the Crystal Evening directly support Hunterdon Health Foundation’s initiatives, including patient care programs, advanced technology, and community health outreach. The event’s success underscores the power of collaboration between healthcare professionals, local organizations, and community members dedicated to ensuring that world-class care is always available close to home.

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Hunterdon Health Foundation, event organizers, sponsors, and attendees for an unforgettable evening of philanthropy and celebration.

For more information about Hunterdon Health Foundation or to learn how to support future events, visit hunterdonhealthfoundation.org.

Lace Up for a Cause: Be Part of the 2025 Main Street Marathon Weekend in Clinton, NJ

Get ready, Hunterdon County! One of the most beloved events of the fall season returns this October with the 2025 Main Street Marathon of Hunterdon, a two-day celebration of community, courage, and compassion. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 18th and Sunday, October 19th, 2025, as runners, volunteers, and supporters come together in historic Clinton, NJ, for an unforgettable weekend benefitting the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center.

This annual event is more than a race—it’s a rallying cry for hope. Every stride taken, every cheer shouted, and every dollar raised supports local patients and families impacted by cancer. Proceeds from the event go directly to the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, helping provide cutting-edge treatment, vital support services, and compassionate care to our neighbors in need.

The weekend kicks off on Saturday, October 18th, with the Main Street Expo & Packet Pick-Up from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Hunterdon Healthcare’s Flemington Campus. It’s the perfect way to dive into the spirit of the marathon. Families can enjoy local vendors, live music, seasonal brews from Sunken Silo Brew Works, and kid-friendly fun including the always-adorable Superhero Sprint!

Then on Sunday, October 19, the streets will buzz with excitement as Race Day begins at 8:00 AM. Participants can take on the scenic Half Marathon starting from the iconic Red Mill, or the shorter but still rewarding 4 Miler starting at 9:30 AM near the intersection of River and Kiceniuk Roads. The course is known for its rolling hills, rural charm, and inspiring energy that keeps participants coming back year after year. Whether you’re running for a loved one, for yourself, or simply for the joy of it, you’ll be part of something truly meaningful.

There are many ways to participate—sign up to race, volunteer at an aid station, or join the community along the route to cheer on the athletes. Your presence makes a difference, and together, we can make an impact that reaches far beyond the finish line.

This year’s event promises to be the biggest and most impactful yet. Help us raise critical funds for cancer care, celebrate the strength of our community, and honor those whose lives have been touched by cancer.

Ready to join the movement? Visit www.mainstreetmarathon.com for race registration, event details, and volunteer opportunities.

Let’s run with heart, hope, and purpose. See you on Main Street this October!

Flemington, NJ — Hunterdon Hematology Oncology (HHO), a leading community oncology practice dedicated to delivering compassionate, comprehensive cancer care, is proud to sponsor and attend the Hunterdon Health Foundation’s 2025 Crystal Evening benefit. The event will take place on Friday, September 26th, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA 18015.

The Crystal Evening is one of Hunterdon Health Foundation’s premier annual fundraising events, celebrating community partnership, philanthropy, and excellence in healthcare. The evening will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, food stations, an open bar, and silent auctions. Guests are also invited to enjoy a live concert performance by The Nerds from 9:30 pm to 11:00 pm. Complimentary valet service will be provided from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Attire for the event is business or cocktail attire.

This year, the Foundation will recognize Pro-Activity – A Human Achievement Company as the 2025 Spirit of Hunterdon Honoree. Pro-Activity is widely known for its work in promoting human performance, well-being, and community engagement. As the founders of the Main Street Half Marathon of Hunterdon, their leadership has inspired residents throughout the region to embrace movement, connection, and health—values that align closely with the mission of Hunterdon Health and HHO.

“Hunterdon Hematology Oncology is honored to support the Hunterdon Health Foundation and this important event,” said the HHO Executive Director. “The Crystal Evening represents the best of our community—collaboration, compassion, and commitment to improving lives. We are proud to stand alongside Hunterdon Health and fellow community partners in advancing access to exceptional care close to home.”

Proceeds from Crystal Evening directly support Hunterdon Health Foundation’s ongoing mission to fund vital healthcare programs, services, and patient care initiatives across the Hunterdon region.

For ticket information, please visit hunterdonhealthfoundation.org, Crystal Evening Event Page, or call 908-788-6141.

About Hunterdon Hematology Oncology

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology (HHO) is a community-based oncology practice providing state-of-the-art cancer treatment and blood disorder care to patients across Hunterdon County and the surrounding region. As part of Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, HHO combines advanced medical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care. The practice is committed to improving quality of life and delivering hope to every patient and family it serves.

For more information, visit www.hhocancer.com

HHO Joins Hunterdon Health Foundation in Celebrating the Spirit of Hunterdon at the Crystal Evening

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology (HHO) is honored to sponsor and attend this year’s Crystal Evening—a signature fundraising event hosted by the Hunterdon Health Foundation on Friday, September 26th, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the beautiful SteelStacks in Bethlehem, PA.

This annual celebration brings together members of our local community, healthcare professionals, and philanthropic partners to support the compassionate, high-quality care that defines Hunterdon Health. The evening will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, food stations, and both a silent and live auction, all leading up to the highlight of the night—the presentation of the 2025 Spirit of Hunterdon Honoree award.

Celebrating the Spirit of Hunterdon

This year’s honoree, Pro-Activity – A Human Achievement Company, is being recognized for its exceptional commitment to community wellness and human performance. As the founders of the Main Street Half Marathon of Hunterdon, Pro-Activity has inspired countless individuals to embrace movement, health, and achievement as part of a thriving, connected lifestyle. Their dedication reflects the same spirit of resilience, compassion, and excellence that HHO brings to the care of every patient we serve.

An Evening of Celebration and Support

The Crystal Evening reception will include an open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a variety of food stations, along with opportunities to bid on exclusive items during the silent auctions. Complimentary valet service will be available from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Guests are invited to stay after the main event for a special concert performance by The Nerds from 9:30 pm to 11:00 pm.

HHO’s Commitment to Community Care

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, our mission goes beyond treating cancer—it’s about uplifting lives and strengthening the communities we serve. Events like Crystal Evening remind us how powerful our collective efforts can be in advancing healthcare, supporting patients, and fostering hope.

We are proud to stand alongside the Hunterdon Health Foundation in supporting programs and initiatives that ensure every patient in our region receives compassionate, innovative, and personalized care.

To learn more or RSVP for the event, please visit hunterdonhealthfoundation.org, Crystal Evening Event Page, or call 908-788-6141.

We look forward to celebrating an inspiring evening together at the Crystal Evening—where compassion meets community and care shines bright.

A Letter from Dr Blankstein

Dear Valued Patients,

After a fulfilling, 35-year-long career at Hunterdon Medical Center, I have made the difficult decision to retire at the end of this year. As you know, I announced in late 2023 that I would begin seeing patients on a part-time basis in order to continue providing the same quality of care while accommodating changes to my personal schedule. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to treat patients like you. I will miss our interactions and consider many of you as friends.

As we embark on this new chapter, Hunterdon Hematology Oncology remains committed to easing the transition. I will be available until the end of December 2025, after which I have full confidence that one of my partners will provide the same excellent, compassionate care you are accustomed to.

Patients who wish to obtain copies of their medical records may request to do so at any time. Original records will be maintained safely and securely by Hunterdon Hematology Oncology.

Thank you for your continued trust and support throughout my 35 years of practice at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers, and I wish you all the best.

Sincerely,

Kenneth Blankstein, MD

Blankets of Hope: Subaru and LLS Uplift Patients at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology

Comfort, Compassion, and Community at the Core of Cancer Care

Fighting cancer takes more than medicine. It takes courage, connection, and care—qualities that are deeply rooted in the mission of Hunterdon Hematology Oncology (HHO). We are proud to announce that this commitment was recently strengthened through a heartwarming donation from Ciocca Subaru of Flemington and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).

As part of the Subaru Loves to Care initiative, Ciocca Subaru and LLS gifted our patients and their families with soft blankets, thoughtfully curated care kits, and handwritten notes of encouragement. These items were more than just supplies—they were symbols of hope.

When Community and Corporate Citizenship Align

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology is deeply embedded in the community we serve. Our care extends beyond treatment plans—we’re here to support the whole person, and that includes working alongside community partners who share our vision. Ciocca Subaru’s outreach through Subaru Loves to Care is a prime example of what’s possible when business and healthcare organizations unite with a common purpose.

Subaru Loves to Care is one of several national philanthropic efforts led by Subaru of America. Focused specifically on supporting those affected by blood cancer, the program helps local dealerships make an immediate and emotional impact by delivering warmth and words of encouragement directly to patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Ciocca Subaru’s local involvement turned a national initiative into a personal experience for our patients—and that made all the difference.

Stories of Strength and Shared Support

During the delivery, smiles filled the infusion suite at Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center. Patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments received their gifts with surprise and gratitude. Some hugged their blankets close. Others read the handwritten notes aloud, marveling at the kindness of strangers who took time to write words of encouragement.

For patients dealing with blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, small comforts can go a long way during lengthy or repeated treatments. A warm blanket not only helps with physical comfort in a chilly treatment room but serves as a physical reminder that they are not alone on this journey.

“This was one of the kindest surprises I’ve had during my treatment,” said one patient. “It made me feel like someone out there is rooting for me.”

Aligning Values: HHO, Subaru, and LLS

At HHO, we believe in providing advanced, personalized cancer care with the warmth and familiarity of a community practice. We understand that healing takes more than prescriptions—it takes human connection. Ciocca Subaru and LLS exemplify this belief, and their partnership reflects our shared commitment to uplifting patients every step of the way.

This also highlights the value of the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center as a vital resource within our local health network. With top-tier oncology specialists, access to clinical trials, and comprehensive patient services, our center is a beacon of care and hope in the region.

We are proud to partner with organizations like LLS, whose mission to cure blood cancers while supporting patients is reflected in the daily work we do. Whether through groundbreaking research, funding treatment, or advocating for patient care, LLS brings tremendous value to our shared goals.

Small Gestures, Big Impact

When facing a cancer diagnosis, even the smallest gestures can have a profound impact. A kind word. A warm blanket. A handwritten card. These tokens of compassion remind patients that their community stands behind them. And in a moment that might otherwise feel isolating, these gestures become lifelines of hope.

That’s the power of the Subaru Loves to Care initiative—and it’s why we are so grateful for the support of Ciocca Subaru and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

From all of us at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology and the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, thank you for your thoughtful donation and unwavering commitment to our patients. Your support brings more than comfort—it brings courage.

Because of you, our patients are wrapped in care—literally and figuratively. And that is a gift beyond measure.

Blankets, Care Kits, and Compassion: A Community Effort to Support Cancer Patients

Bringing Warmth and Hope to Local Patients

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology (HHO), compassion is central to the care we provide every day. That’s why moments of community support mean so much to our team and—most importantly—our patients. This summer, we were honored to receive a heartfelt donation from Ciocca Subaru of Flemington and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) as part of Subaru’s national “Loves to Care” initiative. Their generous gift included cozy blankets, thoughtful care kits, and handwritten messages of hope, all designed to comfort and support individuals undergoing treatment at the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center.

These donations weren’t just gifts—they were acts of kindness that warmed hearts and lifted spirits.

Subaru Loves to Care: A National Movement with Local Impact

Each year, through its Subaru Loves to Care program, Subaru partners with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to deliver thousands of blankets and care kits to patients in treatment centers across the country. The program’s mission is simple but powerful: to let patients and their families know they are not alone in their fight.

This year, Ciocca Subaru of Flemington selected Hunterdon Hematology Oncology and the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center as the local recipient of this generous initiative. The timing couldn’t have been better. As summer temperatures rise, treatment rooms are often kept cool for infection control and patient comfort, making the gift of a warm, soft blanket especially thoughtful.

A Day of Comfort, Courage, and Connection

Representatives from Ciocca Subaru and LLS visited the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center to personally deliver the care packages. Patients, caregivers, and staff were deeply touched by the compassion on display. Several patients shared that the gesture reminded them they’re part of a larger community that truly cares.

“Receiving the blanket during my treatment was more meaningful than I can express,” shared one patient. “It’s not just the warmth of the fabric—it’s the warmth of knowing someone thought of me.”

Staff members at HHO echoed the sentiment. “Moments like this reinforce the importance of community partnerships in healthcare,” said a nurse at the infusion center. “They make our patients feel seen, valued, and supported beyond the clinical setting.”

Supporting the Mission of Hunterdon Hematology Oncology

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, our mission is to provide cutting-edge, evidence-based cancer treatment while maintaining compassionate, individualized care—right here in the heart of our community. Collaborations like this one with Ciocca Subaru and LLS help us extend that care beyond medicine by nurturing the emotional and psychological well-being of our patients.

Every blanket and care kit distributed was a small but meaningful reminder that no one fights alone. For patients navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatment, these tangible expressions of kindness can be a powerful source of strength and hope.

About Ciocca Subaru of Flemington

Ciocca Subaru of Flemington is part of the larger Ciocca Dealership family, known for their strong commitment to community service. Their ongoing partnership with LLS and participation in Subaru Loves to Care is just one example of how they prioritize giving back to the people and neighborhoods they serve year-round.

Their team doesn’t just sell cars—they drive positive change. By choosing to partner with local healthcare providers like Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, they are ensuring that their support reaches those who need it most.

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is a global leader in the fight against blood cancer. Their mission—to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families—aligns closely with the goals of our oncology team. Their partnership with Subaru in the Loves to Care program exemplifies their commitment to both research and patient support.

Through donations, advocacy, and education, LLS is making a tangible difference in the lives of patients across the country and right here in Hunterdon County.

A Heartfelt Thank You from Hunterdon Hematology Oncology

We extend our deepest gratitude to Ciocca Subaru and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for bringing their message of care and comfort to our doors. Your generosity reminds us that healing happens in many ways—not just through medicine, but through kindness, empathy, and shared community values.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we fight. And thanks to partners like Ciocca Subaru and LLS, our patients know they are never alone.

The Power of Nutrition and Exercise in Cancer Care: Enhancing Wellness Through Every Stage

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology (HHO), we are dedicated to delivering cutting-edge cancer treatments while also emphasizing the importance of comprehensive care that includes nutrition and physical activity. Implementing an optimized nutrition plan and incorporating appropriate exercise can significantly enhance the quality of life for our patients during their cancer journey.

The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Treatment

Nutrition plays a vital role in supporting the body during cancer treatment. A well-balanced diet can help patients:

Maintain Strength and Energy: Consuming adequate calories and nutrients helps sustain energy levels and muscle mass, which are crucial during treatment.
Support Immune Function: Proper nutrition bolsters the immune system, aiding in the body’s defense against infections.
Improve Treatment Tolerance: Eating well can help mitigate side effects and improve the body’s response to treatments.

According to the American Cancer Society, good nutrition is especially important if you have cancer because both the illness and its treatments can change the way you eat and how your body tolerates certain foods and uses nutrients .

Tailoring Nutrition to Individual Needs

Each patient’s nutritional needs may vary based on the type of cancer, treatment plan, and individual health status. Collaborating with a registered dietitian can help in creating a personalized nutrition plan that addresses specific requirements and preferences.

Incorporating Exercise into Cancer Care

Engaging in regular physical activity during and after cancer treatment offers numerous benefits:

Reduces Fatigue: Exercise can help alleviate the tiredness commonly associated with cancer treatments.
Enhances Mood: Physical activity is known to improve mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Improves Physical Function: Maintaining an active lifestyle helps preserve muscle strength and flexibility.

The National Cancer Institute highlights that exercise can help reduce cancer-related symptoms and improve how you feel.

Guidelines for Physical Activity

It’s important to approach exercise cautiously and tailor activities to individual capabilities. General recommendations include:

Start Slowly: Begin with low-intensity activities and gradually increase duration and intensity.
Consistency is Key: Aim for regular exercise sessions, even if they are brief.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel during and after exercise, and adjust accordingly.

Empowering Patients Through Education

At HHO, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and resources to support their overall well-being. We offer educational programs and support services that focus on nutrition and physical activity as integral components of cancer care.

For more information on our services and upcoming events, please visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can navigate the cancer journey with strength and resilience.

Note: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or exercise routine.

Join Us for A Special Event Empowering Your Wellness Journey Through Food

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, we believe in treating the whole person—not just the disease. While we are proud to deliver some of the most advanced, cutting-edge cancer treatments available, we also know that true healing and long-term wellness are supported by so much more than medicine alone. That’s why we’re excited to invite you to our upcoming educational event, “Oncology Nutrition Education,” hosted in partnership with Hunterdon Health.

This important and inspiring evening will take place on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 5:00 PM, in the Hunterdon Medical Center Auditorium, located at 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822. This will be an in-person only event, offering a warm and welcoming space to come together as a community to learn, share, and grow.

The evening’s presentation will be led by L. Jeanne Gee, RDN, CSO, CDCES, a Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. As the Coordinator of Oncology Nutrition Services at Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, Jeanne is not only a leading expert in her field—she’s a compassionate advocate for patients and families navigating cancer care. She brings decades of experience and practical wisdom that can help anyone affected by cancer make empowered, informed choices about their nutrition.

Nutrition plays a vital role in our health, our ability to prevent disease, and our strength during and after cancer treatment. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a long-time survivor, or supporting a loved one on their journey, this event is designed with you in mind. Together, we’ll explore how food can be a powerful tool in your wellness toolkit, and how small, sustainable changes can make a big impact on your overall health and quality of life.

This event is open to all oncology patients, cancer survivors, caregivers, family members, friends, and healthcare providers who want to better understand the connection between nutrition and health. We’re here not only to treat cancer—but to help our community thrive beyond it.

Register Today! Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot by completing the registration form at www.hhocancer.com/event-registration/.

We hope to see you there—because when it comes to your health, every bite matters. Let’s take this step together toward better living, better healing, and a stronger, healthier tomorrow.

Breathe, Relax, Heal: Discover the Benefits of Meditation for Oncology Patients & Caregivers

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, we are committed to providing compassionate care that extends beyond medical treatments. In partnership with the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center and The Elixir Fund, we are thrilled to invite you to a special community event focused on the transformative power of meditation for oncology patients, cancer survivors, caregivers, and their loved ones.

Join us on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 5:00 PM for an enriching experience led by Meg McQuarrie, Executive Director and Co-Founder of The Elixir Fund. Hosted in the Hunterdon Medical Center Auditorium located on the Main Campus at 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822. Meg will guide attendees through a calming meditation session and share invaluable insights on how mindfulness techniques can positively impact both physical and emotional well-being.

Did you know that meditation can play a significant role in relieving stress, improving sleep, and reducing anxiety? For oncology patients and their caregivers, these benefits are beneficial in navigating the challenges of treatment and recovery. Through this event, attendees will:

Learn how meditation supports emotional balance and overall well-being
Experience the basics of breath work, a guided meditation, and a simple Jin Shin Jyutsu exercise
Discover how mindfulness techniques can foster resilience and promote healing
Take part in a shared moment of relaxation and connection with a supportive community

Whether you are currently undergoing treatment, in remission, or supporting a loved one, this event provides a safe and nurturing space to explore how meditation can help you find calm and strength amid life’s challenges.

This is an in-person only event, designed to create a meaningful and immersive experience for all attendees. We encourage oncology patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, and friends to take part in this unique opportunity to focus on self-care and relaxation. Together, let’s embrace the power of mindfulness and find moments of calm in the journey ahead.

Register Today! Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today by completing the registration form at www.hhocancer.com/event-registration/.

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