Charlene Berke

Director of the Cancer Center at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital

With 27 years of experience in the field of Radiology, I find myself full of advice and things to share with patients and their families while receiving care. Currently, I am the director at the Avera Queen of Peace Cancer Center in Mitchell, S.D., and an American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) registered in both radiation therapy and radiologic technology. When I was trying to choose a career, I knew I wanted something that would be constantly changing and a challenge. My mother was a nurse, and she led me toward health care. Because of that I never look at my day as going to work but going and doing something I enjoy. As part of my job I get to help people through their cancer journeys, and seeing them heal brings me daily joy.

Outside of work I enjoy visiting with friends and family, especially playing with my grandchildren. I also enjoy boating, cycling and reading. I have a 15-year-old cat named Rico who enjoys hanging out with me on the back porch on warm summer nights. Originally I am from Grand Forks, N.D., and spent most of my childhood in Crookston, Minn., and Wahpeton, N.D., and then moved south to warmer weather in Mitchell, S.D.

Through this blog, I hope to share my knowledge on cancer care, not only for patients but also for anyone touched by cancer.

Author Archive | Charlene Berke
Nurse with Cancer Patient

What is an Oncology Nurse?

May is Oncology Nursing Month. This worldwide recognition honors the nurses who care for patients with cancer. Thousands of nurses participate in Oncology Nursing Month activities, ranging from social gatherings, fundraising to support patients and efforts to raise awareness of the rewards of an oncology nursing career. Read More »

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Don’t Be Afraid of Clinical Trials

Progress in cancer treatment results from researching new procedures and drugs through clinical trials. If you are thinking about participating in a clinical trial, you may feel nervous or unsure. This is normal. But the more you know about what’s involved and what to expect, the more comfortable you’ll be about your decision. Read More »

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Colon cancer growth stages

Part Three: Colorectal Cancer Treatment

What happens once cancer is diagnosed?
If you have colorectal cancer, a team of specialists will be there to help. The team will advise you to have blood tests and scans to determine what is known regarding the stage (extent) of the cancer. Read More »

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Colonoscopy

Part Two: Colorectal Cancer Symptoms and Tests

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
The development of colorectal cancer from a polyp may take between five to ten years and there may be no symptoms at all. Many symptoms are similar to those of irritable bowel syndrome and this can sometimes cause difficulty in making a diagnosis. Read More »

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March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness

What is colorectal cancer?
Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, is cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum (end of the colon). In 2011 there were 460 new cases of colorectal cancer and 150 colon cancer related deaths in South Dakota. Read More »

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Manage Nausea and Increase Your Appetite During Cancer Treatment

Nausea is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation. You may also experience other symptoms, such as a feeling of fullness, no appetite, a change in the way foods taste, heartburn or feeling tired.
Manage Nausea
These simple steps often go far in helping you cope with the nausea associated with chemotherapy or radiation:

Avoid strong-smelling foods, which can bring on nausea. Read More »

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