FirstHealth Cancer Center brings together a team of specialists and surgeons to improve the prevention, early detection and treatment of cancer for each individual patient.
Medical Oncologists & Hematologists
Our Pinehurst Medical Clinic and FirstHealth team of highly trained medical oncologists and hematologists offer diagnosis and treatment of solid tumors, including lung cancer, head and neck cancer, sarcoma, gastrointestinal malignancies, skin cancers and breast cancers, as well as specializing in the study and treatment of blood disorders. They oversee treatment options including chemotherapy, hormonal therapies and immunotherapy as well as coordinating care with radiation oncologists, surgeons, primary care physicians and other members of the cancer care team to focus on quality of life.
Meet Our Team
Radiation Oncologists
Our team of highly trained radiation oncologists oversee the care of each patient undergoing radiation treatment and work together with the entire cancer team to make sure you receive the best possible individualized care while undergoing radiation therapy. Other members of the radiation oncology team include nurses, radiation therapists, medical physicists, dosimetrists, patient navigators, social workers and nutritionists.
Meet Our Team
Gynecologic Oncologists
Our team of gynecologic oncologists specialize in cancers of the female reproductive system including ovarian, uterine, cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers. They are experts in diagnosing and treating these cancers as well as noncancerous conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids.
Meet Our Team
Breast Surgeons
The team of Pinehurst Surgical Clinic breast surgeons participate in our Multidisciplinary Breast Clinic in the cancer center. Patients can see their surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist and nurse navigator and leave with a comprehensive plan of care.
Raymond G. Washington, Jr., M.D.
Fabian E. Alzamora, M.D.
Bailey Sanders, M.D.
Colorectal Surgeons
The team of Pinehurst Surgical Clinic colorectal surgeons specialize in cancers of the colon and the rectum. A multidisciplinary team with colorectal surgery specialists, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists develop a treatment plan individualized for each patient.
Matthew A. Strode, M.D.
Samuel A. Heathcote, Sr, M.D.
Fabian E. Alzamora, M.D.
Nathan R. Knapp, M.D.
Bailey Sanders, M.D.
ENT Surgeons
The team of Pinehurst Surgical Clinic ENT surgeons specialize in cancers of the head and neck and include cancers that start in several places in the head and throat, not including brain cancers or cancers of the eye. These cancers can start in the sinuses (the spaces around the nose on the inside of the skull), inside and behind the nose, in the mouth, including the tongue, the gums, and the roof of the mouth, in the back of the mouth and the throat (pharynx), which includes three sections called the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx.
Waldemar L. Riefkohl, M.D.
Jefferson Kirby Kilpatrick, M.D.
Wyman T. McGuirt, M.D.
Justin Miller, M.D.
Carl W. Berk, M.D.
Matthew R. Grafenberg, M.D.
Gastroenterologists
The team of Pinehurst Medical Clinic gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the digestive system to include cancer of the liver, stomach, colon (intestine), biliary tract, gallbladder and bowel. Colonoscopies are the best way to get screened for colon cancer.
Our gastroenterology providers are experts in their field with a committed focus on maintaining high Adenoma Detection Rates (ADR). ADR is a national benchmark that's critical for quality colonoscopies.
For every one percent increase in a physician's ADR, a patient's risk of developing colon cancer over the next year decreases by three percent. When searching for a gastroenterologist, potential patients should be looking for a physician with an ADR of at least 15 percent in women and 25 percent in men. Pinehurst Medical Clinic gastroenterology providers are proud to be substantially above the recommended ADR rates for both men and women. Gastroenterologists who are extremely proficient at finding and removing precancerous polyps have patients who are less likely to get cancer.
Eric R. Frizzell, M.D.
Wayne B. Lucas, M.D.
David F. Martin, M.D.
Thomas M. Swantkowski, M.D.
Ravikant V. Varanasi, M.D.
Diane M. Williams, M.D.
Farra M. Wilson, D.O.
Viet-Nhan Nguyen, D.O.
Pulmonary Specialists
The Pinehurst Medical Clinic pulmonary specialists lead the Chest Center of the Carolinas that brings together the expertise of multiple specialties in the treatment of diseases of the chest, particularly lung cancer. The center assists patients in their treatment plan by minimizing visits and providing the most advanced care possible. By combining the talents of the specialists into one center, patients’ complex care is coordinated in an efficient and friendly manner, without excessive visits.
Michael A. Pritchett, D.O.
Adam R. Belanger, M.D.
David C. Thornton, M.D.
Thoracic (Lung) Surgeons
Our thoracic (lung) surgeons provide comprehensive care in the surgical treatment of diseases affecting the chest and lungs. They offer many minimally invasive and robotic surgery procedures and participate in the Chest Center of the Carolinas to help coordinate lung cancer patients' comprehensive care plan. Learn more.
Peter I. Ellman, M.D.
William Clifford Kitchens, M.D.
Stephen W. Davies, M.D.
Urologic Surgeons
Our Pinehurst Surgical Clinic urologic surgeons specialize in treating urological problems and conditions including cancers of the kidney, bladder, prostate and stone.
Manlio A. Goetzl, M.D.
Greg L. Griewe, M.D.
Jennifer L. Ballinger, M.D.
Robert J. Chamberlain, Jr.
John R. Michalak, M.D.
Joshua P. Sesek, M.D.
Nurse navigators have become an indispensable piece of FirstHealth's comprehensive approach to cancer care. In many ways, they serve as a patient's eyes, ears and lifeline throughout a treatment journey. They are also master coordinators, connecting patients and their families with a wide range of treatment and support services. They accompany patients into the treatment process and introduce them to the broad array of services offered by FirstHealth. Navigators will facilitate, guide and support newly diagnosed cancer patients and their families as they access cancer care services. They will also coordinate and streamline care, as well as identify local resources and appropriate support needed. Read below to learn more about our team of navigators and how they can positively impact a patient's journey.
Lynn Lanier, MSN, R.N., ONN-CG (Breast Cancer Navigator)
Lynn Lanier earned her MSN with an emphasis on Community and Public Health Nursing from UNC-Charlotte. She is a registered nurse who has been with FirstHealth since 1988. In 2011, she completed the Guided Care Nurse training from Johns Hopkins Hospital and University and received a Certificate in Guided Care Nursing through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is a member of the Academy of Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators (AONN) and has earned her Oncology Nurse Navigator-Certified Generalist (ONN-CG).
Kim Cobb, BSN, R.N., ONN-CG (T) (Chest Center/Lung Cancer Navigator)
Kim Cobb earned her BSN from Lenoir Rhyne College and has 35 years of nursing experience. She has been employed with FirstHealth of the Carolinas for 25 years. She is a member of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) and the Academy of Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators (AONN+) and has earned her Oncology Nurse Navigator-Certified Generalist (ONN-CG).
Taylor Galford R.N.
.jpg)
Taylor Galford earned her ADN from Excelsior College and has 24 years of nursing experience. Prior to joining the nurse navigator team she worked for seven years with FirstHealth Gynecologic Oncology. She is proud to work at FirstHealth and considers it an honor to be a part of such an amazing team.
Kimberly McNeill Stewart, BSN, R.N. (Breast Cancer Navigator)
Kimberly McNeill Stewart earned her BSN in nursing in 2014 from UNCP and worked for MRH-Hoke emergency as a charge nurse. She spent some time as a travel nurse prior to joining the FirstHealth infusion team. After working several years as a charge nurse in infusion, she gained knowledge and experience prior to becoming a breast cancer navigator. The cancer center is her home, and being one of the few that are from the area originally (Raeford), she prides herself in working for FirstHealth and being able to serve the community. She is a member of ONS and hopes to become a certified nurse navigator with time. I cannot imagine working anywhere else and do believe my prior work journey has led me to the FirstHealth Cancer Center.
Stephanie Cain, BSN, R.N.
Stephanie Cain earned her ADN from Richmond Community College in 2019 and her BSN from Fayetteville State University in 2023. She began her nursing career at FirstHealth MRH-Richmond in the intensive care unit before becoming an infusion nurse at the cancer center. She says she has learned a lot throughout her career as an oncology nurse and is proud to be a nurse navigator. She truly could not think of a more fulfilling job and loves coming to work every day. She says that we have the most amazing patients and team taking care of them.
Brenda Gilmore, CMA
Text goes here
Our Financial Navigation team is dedicated to eliminating financial toxicity for our patients. We offer individual screening and assessments to help identify potential coverage gaps and then strive to connect patients with resources within FirstHealth and the surrounding community. We are also able to provide information on transportation options, disability assistance, and N.C. Medicaid eligibility. For more information email FinancialNavigationOncology@firsthealth.org or call (910) 715-3598.
Meet Our Financial Navigators
%20(1).jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
L-R Brittany McArn, OPN-CG, Fallon Wade, Catherine Inquimboy, Kaylynn Logwood, Shantel Bellamy, Maya McDuffie, Terri Reynolds, Jasmine DouglasNutrition and Dietary Team
Many cancer patients undergoing treatment may experience various problems such as nausea, diarrhea and/or swallowing difficulties that can interfere with their nutrition status. Our oncology-dedicated nutritionists will help restore digestive health, prevent malnutrition and provide dietary recommendations during treatment. As registered dietitians, they understand many of the common challenges related to treatment for cancer and recovery from cancer. Our goal is to help you stay strong and nourished.
Gayla Comer, R.D., LDN
Gayla Comer is a registered and licensed dietitian who has in oncology for more than 15 years. Born and raised in the Sandhills, she received her B.A. in nutrition from Western Carolina University in 1989. Having studied alternative therapies, including herbs and aromatherapy, she brings a well-rounded approach to her clinical practice. She is also a certified Pilates and Yoga teacher. To contact Gayla call, (910) 715-1058.
Cindy McDuffie, R.D., LDN
Cindy McDuffie is a registered and licensed dietitian who has worked with FirstHealth of the Carolinas for more than 25 years. She received her B.S. in nutrition and dietetics from the University of North Carolina of Greensboro. To contact Cindy, call (910) 715-3404.
Ashley Carpenter, R.D., LDN
Ashley Carpenter is a registered dietitian and has worked for FirstHealth of the Carolinas since 2007. She received her B.S. in Nutrition from East Carolina University. To contact Ashley, call (910) 715-1058
Cancer Counseling
A diagnosis of cancer and the challenges of treatment can lead to distress for the individual with cancer as well as for family members and/
or caregivers. Our Social Worker is available to assess each person’s and family’s situation and recommend effective ways of coping and adjusting during or after treatment.
Deborah Yarborough, BSW
Deborah Yarborough received a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW), cum laude, from North Carolina State University. She has more than 18 years experience as a social worker, including working with hospice, skilled nursing facilities, social services and acute hospital care. She joined FirstHealth of the Carolinas in 2016 as the case manager in inpatient rehabilitation. Through the years, Deborah has provided counseling and support services to individuals and families. She is a member of the Association of Oncology Social Work. She maintains the hospital’s cancer center library and facilitates the cancer center support groups. To contact Deborah call, (910) 715-2237.
Katelyn Culbreth, BSW
.jpg)
Katelyn Culbreth received her bachelor's degree in social work (BSW), cum laude, from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) in the spring of 2024. She has gained valuable experience working with children and has a longstanding interest in serving patients in the medical field. Throughout her academic career, Katelyn has received comprehensive training that equips her to provide effective counseling and support services to individuals and families. She actively facilitates cancer support groups with Deborah Yarborough and participates in counseling at the cancer center.
Cancer Genetic Counseling
Genetics can play a major role in how cancer may be diagnosed and treated in many situations. FirstHealth offers genetic counseling to patients for whom in may be appropriate. During a genetic counseling session, our counselor and patient discuss medical and family history and a complete risk analysis to let a patient know their risk of having a genetic predisposition to cancer.
Harleigh Quick, MMSc
.jpg)
Harleigh Quick graduated from Emory University School of Medicine with a Master of Medical Science in human genetics and genetic counseling. She received a bachelor's degree in molecular biology and psychological counseling from Coker University. Quick’s expertise allows FirstHealth to offer patients enhanced genetic counseling services, which can help them make more informed decisions about their care. She decided to pursue a career in the medical field because she enjoys helping others and hearing their stories. To contact Harleigh, call (910) 715-8682.
Cancer Wellness
Research has shown that exercise is not only safe and possible during cancer treatment, but that it can also improve how well
you function physically and your quality of life. Learn more about the many wellness programs offered at FirstHealth Cancer Center.
