Mercy Health is excited to announce its oncology program has been selected as one of just eight sites across the United States to participate in a groundbreaking clinical trial aimed at reducing hair loss in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The trial, which centers on compression cap therapy, marks a significant step in addressing the physical and emotional challenges faced by those undergoing cancer treatment.
Addressing the Emotional Impact of Hair Loss
Chemotherapy-induced hair loss is not only a visible side effect of treatment but also a profound emotional and psychological burden for many patients. “Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is more than just a physical change. It’s a profound shift in identity, self-image, and control,” said Chaundra Foss-Blizard, Clinical Research Nurse at Mercy Health. “Acknowledging and addressing this impact empowers patients to regain control over their journey, reminding them that while cancer may take much, it doesn’t define who they are.”
By focusing on the emotional well-being of patients, Mercy Health aims to restore dignity and strength during the challenging fight against cancer. The new trial offers patients the possibility of retaining their hair throughout chemotherapy, providing both physical and emotional benefits.
Innovative Technology Offers Hope
Developed by the Irish startup Luminate, the Lily device applies gentle pressure to the scalp, helping to reduce hair loss during chemotherapy. This novel approach offers a promising alternative to traditional methods, providing patients with a comfortable, portable, and user-friendly solution.
“We are incredibly excited to collaborate with Mercy Health in Springfield and Urbana, two of the first locations in the U.S. to offer this innovative technology,” said Aaron Hannon, Co-Founder & CEO of Luminate. “The dedication of the Mercy Health team to patient care and research made it an easy decision to partner with them on this groundbreaking initiative.”
Though the Lily device is investigational and has not yet been cleared by the FDA for commercial use, it represents a significant leap forward in patient-centered cancer care. For more information about the trial, interested individuals can visit ClinicalTrials.gov using the Identifier: NCT06786078.
Local Launch and Expanding Access
Mercy Health began administering the first compression cap therapy to a patient on March 6, 2025, at its newly opened Urbana Cancer Center. Just over a week later, the Springfield Cancer Center began its own treatments, extending access to this cutting-edge therapy to a wider patient base.
“This trial is a key part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing cancer care,” said Lisa Gibson, Director of Oncology Services at Mercy Health. “Not only are we offering innovative medical treatments, but we are also supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of our patients.”
Comprehensive Care Through Strategic Partnerships
In addition to its participation in the Lily Device Trial, Mercy Health’s oncology program continues to provide comprehensive care through partnerships with leading institutions. Its longstanding affiliation with the Columbus NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) expands access to the latest cancer prevention and treatment protocols. Furthermore, Mercy Health works with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute to enhance patient care and offer early-phase clinical research opportunities.
Mercy Health’s commitment to excellence in cancer care is further demonstrated by its full accreditation from the Commission on Cancer (CoC), ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of treatment and services.
New Initiatives to Support Local Cancer Care
As part of its ongoing efforts to improve cancer care, Mercy Health recently opened the Karen Teusink Integrated Breast Center at its Springfield Cancer Center. This new service allows patients to meet with their entire care team in one appointment, streamlining consultations and reducing the number of visits required for different specialties.
Additionally, Mercy Health is planning to expand its radiation therapy capabilities with the addition of a new linear accelerator at the Springfield Cancer Center. The advanced equipment will offer more treatment options for local patients, further strengthening the health system’s comprehensive cancer care offerings.
Mercy Health’s participation in the clinical trial and its commitment to patient care reflect a growing effort to address the medical, emotional, and logistical challenges faced by cancer patients in the region.
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