Integrative Oncology: Evidence-Based Strategies for Managing Pain, Stress and Insomnia

Audrey joined the HealthTree Foundation as the Myeloma Community Program Director in 2020. While not knowing much about myeloma at the start, she has since worked hard to educate herself, empathize and learn from others' experiences. She loves this job. Audrey is passionate about serving others, loves learning, and enjoys a nice mug of hot chocolate no matter the weather.

Diane has been an active and engaged care partner with Todd, her husband, since he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017. In January 2020 they retired to devote their time and talents as patient advocates, HealthTree coaches, and myeloma community leaders. They are committed to helping improve and advance cancer care for all patients and feel a collaborative, virtual support group is an excellent way to help educate and empower patients and their families. Diane and Todd have lived in Orange County, CA for over 25 years where they raised their two sons.

Todd Kennedy was diagnosed with myeloma in 2017 and has become a tireless advocate for myeloma patients and research. His background includes over 30 years working in the pharmaceutical industry until he and his wife Diane retired from their respective first careers to devote their time and talents to strengthen the myeloma community. They collaborate with HealthTree and other trusted partners to educate and empower myeloma patients and caregivers and accelerate the arrival of cures.

Richard T. Lee, M.D., is a second-generation physician who was inspired by seeing the positive impact that good health care can have on a community. His philosophy as an oncologist is all about treating the whole patient — centering care on who they are and what they need. His practice brings together the best of Western medicine with integrative therapies such as mind-body techniques and acupuncture backed by research findings. Dr. Lee earned his medical degree at George Washington University, then pursued a residency in internal medicine at Stanford University. Next, a Fulbright Scholarship brought him to China Medical University in Taiwan, where he learned traditional medicine, focusing on acupuncture. At the University of Chicago, he was a fellow in oncology/hematology, including a stint as chief fellow, and in medical ethics, while also training in clinical research. This was followed by a palliative medicine fellowship at Northwestern University. In his practice, Dr. Lee augments the latest in cancer care with options such as acupuncture, which has been shown to help alleviate pain, nausea and symptoms of nerve damage; meditation, shown to help with pain and insomnia; and yoga, also shown to help with insomnia. In his role as medical director of the Integrative Medicine Program, he works closely with his colleagues in supportive care to ensure a unified program with a comprehensive approach. This includes everything from the mind-body techniques and acupuncture, to the basics of nutrition and physical activity, to specialists in treating pain, to support from psychologists and social workers.