The cancer treatment center on Key West’s North Roosevelt Boulevard has a new name and a new sign out front, but inside, the service and commitment to caring for the Keys community are the same as they’ve been for 27 years.
The former 21st Century Oncology cancer treatment center is now part of Genesis Care, a worldwide network of medical providers.
A year ago, Genesis Care acquired all 21st Century Oncology centers in the United States, including the Key West location.
The center still offers compassionate cancer treatment through radiation therapies, chemotherapy and the newest developments in immunotherapies, which uses a body’s own immune system to fight cancer.
“It’s been amazing to see what’s happening with immunotherapies,” said Mercy Hiller, administrator at Genesis Care, who became a radiation technician more than 20 years ago after her mother had to leave the Keys to receive her treatments.
Formerly a pediatric nurse, Hiller changed gears and became a radiation technician to ensure that no other Keys resident would have to travel to the mainland for radiation treatment. When Hiller’s mother, Marta Gonzalez, lost her battle, the building that houses the Key West cancer center was named in her honor.
Hiller also founded the nonprofit Cancer Foundation of the Florida Keys, which raises money to help cancer patients pay their rent, mortgage, utilities and other expenses while undergoing cancer treatment.
“Even though people see a different name on the door, our staff is still the same,” Hiller said. “They truly make cancer treatments as compassionate and comfortable as possible. And we’re proud to now be affiliated with one of the world’s largest medical care and cancer treatment providers.”
