Joan Karnell Supportive Care Program
Compassionate support for cancer patients and families
Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be overwhelming. Patients and family members typically have many questions and concerns about the disease and the care that comes with it. The Joan Karnell Supportive Care Program at Pennsylvania Hospital helps you and your family cope with the physical and emotional distress caused by cancer diagnosis and treatment.
We believe that the right support is the essence of compassionate cancer care. Supportive care comes in a variety of shapes and sizes to match your needs and concerns as you work to combat cancer. The less distress you have, the more energy you can direct toward recovery.
An interdisciplinary team to support your needs
Comprehensive supportive care services require the expertise of an interdisciplinary team in order to adequately assess and treat the complex needs of cancer patients and their families. Our team includes professionals from medicine, nursing, social work, psychology, nutrition, massage therapy, art therapy, pastoral care and other professional disciplines.
We have many supportive care services and programs, which are available to all patients from the point of diagnosis. These include:
About Joan Karnell
Joan Karnell was known for her warmth, humility, and deep care for others. When she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the early 1980s, she faced her illness with strength and empathy, while also recognizing how isolating the experience could be for patients and their families. At the time, support beyond medical treatment was limited, reinforcing her belief, shared with her husband, Robert (Bob) Karnell—that cancer care should address the whole person, not just the disease. Together, they became dedicated advocates for a more compassionate, connected approach to care at Pennsylvania Hospital, one that acknowledged the full human experience of cancer.
Through sustained involvement, philanthropy, and close collaboration with clinicians and hospital leadership, the Karnells helped bring this vision to life. Their efforts contributed to the establishment of the Joan Karnell Cancer Center, now recognized as the Joan Karnell Supportive Care Program at Pennsylvania Hospital, where treatment and supportive services were brought together to better serve patients and families. Bob Karnell continued this work for decades, ensuring that supportive care remained a central priority as the health system evolved. His enduring commitment reinforced a lasting legacy: that emotional, psychological, and spiritual support are essential components of effective cancer care.
Patient stories
From patient to advocate, battling breast cancer and disparities
With her metastatic breast cancer under control, Jamil Rivers is looking out for other Black women. “We’re trying to help them understand what to anticipate, what questions to ask, and how to be advocates for themselves.”
After the hospital, support to help patients thrive at home
A Penn-grown program offers low-income patients extra support after a hospital stay—with virtual teams knitting together a safety net to reduce readmissions.
A diagnosis that ripples through the family
“It’s harder to find out your sister has cancer and a BRCA mutation than to find out for yourself,” said Laura Temple. Testing and treatment have made all the difference for the three BRCA-positive sisters who are now breast cancer survivors. They are grateful for Susan Domchek, MD, answering questions about research that could benefit their children.
From survivor to inspiring others to exercise
Doris Piccinin uses her own firsthand experience as a breast cancer survivors to help other survivors. “I’m excited to see a lightbulb go on for people when they realize that not all physical activity is the same, and to see them recognize and understand the questions to ask when they’re having limitations. That’s where I gain my inspiration.”
An unexpected ovarian cancer diagnosis
“I’m thankful for the support and many prayers from my family and friends. I appreciate that I received care close to home and grateful that Dr. Soriano found my cancer,” said Donna Frandsen.
Genetic knowledge helps catch cancer early
“I didn’t know about BRCA at all before my sister’s diagnosis—it was a total learning curve,” Trudy Orthey said. “If you know that your family carries this gene mutation, don’t be afraid to talk about it. I did and it saved my life. It also has a ripple effect to your family and future generations.”
A five-time survivor who keeps fighting follicular lymphoma
“I have been truly thankful for the medical expertise and personal care I have and continue to receive at Penn Medicine while managing this cancer that continues throughout my life,” said Sharon Dunkel.
A mom-inspired clinical trial journey to help others
“I wanted to participate in a clinical trial because I was inspired by my mom,” Kate Korson said. “I saw how brave she was and the success she had on a clinical trial. I felt like I received the best possible care by taking part in a clinical trial, and it feels good to know that I’m helping others by contributing to cancer research.”
Coming home to ‘Team Penn’: Kate’s Story
From the moment Kate Korson showed up at her first appointment wearing a Penn sweatshirt to symbolize she was on “Team Penn,” every one of her caregivers let her know they were on “Team Kate.” “Penn has now saved all three members of my family,” she said, after participating in a clinical trial.
A senior survivor of uterine cancer at 87
"I felt I was in exceptional hands,” said Mimi Reed. Diagnosed with uterine cancer at 86, Reed found care personalized to her goal of maintaining her independence through specialized geriatric oncology care at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center.