Now Hiring Radiation Therapists – Click Here to Apply Today.

ACC Logo Horizontal

Men’s Health Awareness Month – Prostate Cancer & A Second Opinion

One critical area of focus during Men’s Health Month is prostate cancer, a disease that affects one in nine men during their lifetime.
A man with a bald head, red beard, tattoo on his left arm, and wearing an orange polo shirt and green pants is sitting on a blue couch, smiling and talking with a doctor. The doctor, wearing a white coat, tie, and black pants, holds a clipboard and listens attentively. A colorful painting of a palm tree and landscape hangs on the wall behind them.


November marks Men’s Health Awareness Month, a time to emphasize the importance of early detection, various treatment options, and overall health. One critical area of focus during Men’s Health Month is prostate cancer, a disease that affects one in nine men during their lifetime. Understanding the diagnosis and available treatment options is crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome and care. 

Why Seek a Second Opinion After a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis? 

Receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but seeking a second opinion can provide clarity and confidence in your treatment plan. Here’s why it’s worth considering: 

  • Confidence in Diagnosis: A second opinion can confirm the accuracy of your diagnosis and ensure that all tests and biopsies have been interpreted correctly. 
  • Exploring Treatment Options: It opens the door to alternative or less invasive treatment options you may not have been presented with initially. 
  • More Personalized Care: A second opinion helps tailor treatment to your unique needs, potentially introducing advanced therapies that align better with your health goals. 
  • Peace of Mind: Ultimately, knowing you’ve explored all possibilities helps you feel more confident in the path forward. 

Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer 

Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options available, depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer: 

  1. Surgery: Removal of the prostate gland, known as a prostatectomy, is a common treatment for localized prostate cancer. 
  2. Radiation Therapy: 
  • Proton Therapy: A precise form of radiation that minimizes damage to surrounding tissues. 
  • Photon Therapy: A more traditional form of radiation. 
  1. Hormone Therapy: Treatments like Lupron and Eligard reduce testosterone levels, slowing the growth of prostate cancer cells. 
  2. Active Surveillance: For low-risk cases, some men opt for monitoring rather than immediate treatment. 
  3. Chemotherapy: Typically used in more advanced stages, chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cancer cells. 
  4. Targeted Radiation Therapy: Focused radiation that specifically targets cancer cells, reducing the risk of side effects. 

Latest Advancements in Prostate Cancer Treatment 

Thanks to continuous research and technological innovation, prostate cancer treatment is evolving rapidly. Some of the most promising advancements include: 

  • Proton Therapy: Offers a more precise treatment, reducing the risk of side effects and damage to healthy tissue. 
  • Immunotherapy: Checkpoint inhibitors help the body’s immune system identify and destroy cancer cells more effectively. 
  • Genomic Testing: Provides insights into the genetic makeup of tumors, enabling doctors to tailor treatments based on the cancer’s unique characteristics. 
  • Robotic Surgery: Minimally invasive techniques allow for quicker recovery and less pain compared to traditional surgery. 
  • High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU): A non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to target and destroy cancer cells. 
  • PSMA Targeted Radiation Therapy: A promising approach for advanced prostate cancer that targets specific proteins on cancer cells to deliver radiation directly to the tumor. 

Prostate cancer is a serious concern for men, but advancements in treatment, combined with the option of seeking a second opinion, offer hope. Men diagnosed with prostate cancer should feel empowered to ask questions, explore their treatment options, and consider the latest innovations to ensure they receive the best possible care. This Men’s Health Awareness Month, take the opportunity to prioritize your health and receive the best care possible. 

Blog Home

Share:

More Posts

Categories

Read More

ACC Home

Contact

A woman with dark skin and long straight black hair parted in the middle, smiling. She is wearing a light gray blazer and a delicate necklace with a small pendant. The background is plain and light-colored.

Arlean Marcellus, BS

Physician Liaison

Arlean Marcellus joined Ackerman Cancer Center in March 2023 and leads physician outreach. She builds and strengthens meaningful partnerships with referring physicians, healthcare facilities, and medical groups, driving growth in patient referrals. Arlean holds a degree in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health from the University of North Florida. Beyond her work, she volunteers with Feeding Northeast Florida. In her free time, Arlean enjoys running, roller skating, and spending time with her family.

Young woman with long, wavy brown hair, light skin, and brown eyes, smiling against a plain gray background. She is wearing a light pink top and a black jacket.

Shelby Goodman, MSW

Oncology Social Worker

Shelby Goodman joined the Ackerman Cancer Center team in January 2023 as the oncology social worker. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of North Florida and went on to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). With over five years of experience supporting individuals and families in the social work field, her practice focuses on psychosocial support, care coordination, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for patients and their loved ones. Shelby is a member of the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers (FSOSW). In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and dog.

Young woman with long, wavy blonde hair wearing a green shirt and a gold cross necklace, smiling against a plain light background.

Kali Molter, MBA

Community Relations Specialist

Kali Molter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in August 2024 and supports community outreach, marketing initiatives, and engagement efforts. She holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from the University of North Florida. A Jacksonville native and Bishop Kenny alum, Kali is passionate about contributing to and strengthening the local community. She brings experience in hospitality and event management and serves on the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX Professional Development and Community Engagement committees. Outside of work, Kali enjoys living at the beach, running and yoga, traveling, and is a lifelong Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

A young woman with long, dark brown hair is smiling. She is wearing a black top with sheer, dotted sleeves and a small necklace with a pendant. The background is plain light gray.

Ceilidgh O'Brien, BS

Patient Relations Manager

Ceilidgh O’Brien is the patient relations manager at Ackerman Cancer Center, where she leads the patient relations team and helps ensure every patient experience is organized, supportive, and welcoming. She oversees scheduling and communications and is passionate about creating efficient processes that help patients and staff feel
informed, supported, and cared for. Ceilidgh earned a Bachelor of Science in health sciences from the University of South Florida in 2024 and values building strong, compassionate connections with both patients and colleagues. A Boston native, Ceilidgh traded snow for sunshine and now spends her free time running with friends
and supporting the Jacksonville Humane Society.

Blonde woman with straight hair wearing a white collared shirt and a delicate gold necklace, smiling against a plain light gray background.

Tiffany Vaughn, RT (R)(T)

Manager, Radiation Therapy & Imaging

Tiffany Vaughn brings extensive experience and steady leadership to Ackerman Cancer Center, with 24 years of service to the practice. For the past 15 years, she has served in leadership roles, overseeing both radiation therapy and imaging departments with a focus on quality care, collaboration, and operational excellence. Tiffany is a proud
member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. She earned her technologist degree from St.
Vincent’s Medical Center and completed radiation therapy training from Washburn
University. Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing in or
around the water, and taking on hands-on projects around her home.

Middle-aged woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a black blazer over a light blue top, smiling slightly against a plain light gray background.

Vivienne Bennett, MS, RT(R)(M)​

Clinic Manager

Vivienne Bennett joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2013 as a mammography technologist and was promoted in 2021 to oncology clinic manager, overseeing clinical operations across all four locations. She provides leadership for daily clinic operations, supports multidisciplinary oncology teams, ensures regulatory and accreditation compliance, and implements operational strategies to improve quality, safety, and patient experience. Vivienne holds a master’s degree in medical radiation sciences from the University of Sydney in Australia and is a member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Outside of work, she enjoys watching sports, walking, and spending time with friends and family.

Middle-aged man with short gray hair and glasses, wearing a white lab coat over a yellow shirt and a dark patterned tie, smiling against a plain light gray background.

Timothy Scott, RTR, RTT, CMD

Manager, Dosimetry, Facilities, & Research

Tim Scott joined Ackerman Cancer Center in 2003 and brings nearly 40 years of experience in radiation oncology and medical dosimetry operations. He oversees medical dosimetry, facilities, special projects, and research and has played a key role in nearly every building project and major technology launch at the center. Tim is passionate about innovation and the development, construction, and commissioning of advanced treatment technologies, including proton therapy. Beyond his professional work, Tim serves as a worship pastor and is a brass musician. In his free time, he enjoys restoring classic cars and spending time on the lake.

Man with short dark hair wearing a dark suit jacket, white dress shirt, and a blue striped tie, against a plain light gray background.

Greg Sarkisov, BS

Director of Information Technology

Greg Sarkisov joined Ackerman Cancer Center in September 2019 and oversees all
facets of information technology and information security within the organization. Greg has over twenty years of experience in information technology and security. With over six of those years in our practice, he has led initiatives to strengthen our core security and expand the use of various technologies to help aid our staff in providing effective
and efficient patient care. Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information
systems security from ITT Technical Institute. Outside of work, he stays active in the
community and is a member of the IT Council with the Jacksonville Chamber of
Commerce. In his free time, Greg enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

Young woman with long black hair, wearing a light pink button-up shirt, smiling gently against a plain light background.

Jennifer Zelaya, MHA

Director of Human Resources

Jenny Zelaya is the director of human resources at Ackerman Cancer Center and
Ackerman Urology, where she oversees all HR functions and fosters a positive,
inclusive workplace culture. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Miami and brings extensive experience in talent management, employee engagement, and regulatory compliance. Fluent in Spanish, Jennifer enjoys staying active outside of work, playing pickleball, golfing with friends and family, and spending time with her golden retriever, Lenny.

A woman with medium-length black hair, wearing a gray blazer over a blue top, smiling against a plain light gray background.

Amy Mousa, CPA

Director of Finance and Accounting

Amy Mousa joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2021 and serves as the
director of finance and accounting. In her role, she oversees financial operations and supports the organization’s strategic and operational goals. Amy holds a Florida CPA license and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from the
University of North Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, traveling, and
spending quality time with her family.

Man with short dark hair wearing a black suit jacket, white dress shirt, and a dark tie, smiling against a plain light gray background.

Nelson Miksys, PhD, MCCPM

Chief Medical Physicist

Nelson Miksys joined Ackerman Cancer Center in October 2019. As chief medical physicist, Nelson manages the medical physics department, which is responsible for
quality assurance of all patient treatment plans, calibration of the radiation therapy equipment, maintenance of the radiation safety program, integration of new technology
into the clinic, and providing clinical technical support across all aspects of the cancer center. Nelson has over ten years of experience as a medical physicist and comes to Ackerman Cancer Center from The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre (Ottawa, Canada). Nelson has a PhD in medical physics from Carleton University (Ottawa, Canada) and a
master’s degree in medical and health physics from McMaster University (Hamilton,
Canada). Outside of work, Nelson is actively involved in his children’s sports activities and community social events and is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular physical fitness and outdoor activities.

Middle-aged man with short dark hair, wearing a dark suit jacket, white shirt, and patterned tie, smiling against a plain light gray background.

Robert Tokarz, MS, DABR

Vice President, Technical Services

Rob Tokarz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in January 2014 and oversees the Physics, Dosimetry, Therapy, Imaging, IT, and Transcription departments. He holds a Bachelor of Science in physics from Notre Dame and a Master of Science in medical physics from Columbia University. Rob has worked in the field of medical physics for 25 years and has worked previously at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Prior to his career in medical physics, Rob was an officer in the United States Navy, where he attained the rank of lieutenant commander. As a naval aviator, he flew Seahawk
helicopters out of Naval Station Mayport and was stationed overseas in Bahrain.

Young woman with long brown hair, wearing a light pink blazer and teal earrings, smiling against a plain light gray background.

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz, MBA

Vice President, Operations

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2020 and leads strategic planning initiatives across all departments, directs all aspects of revenue cycle management, and works to develop and maintain relationships with community partners. Gigi holds an MBA from Tulane University. A Jacksonville native, she is involved in several local charitable and civic organizations. She serves as chair of the Art in Public Places Committee for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, is a member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet, and is a trustee of the Jewish Community Alliance and Jacksonville Jewish Center. In her free time, Gigi enjoys playing mahjong, exploring new hobbies with friends, and spending time with her husband and two-year-old daughter.

close menu icon

SEARCH

Find information about cancer care, conditions we treat, our care providers, events, general wellness, and more.

Young woman with long, wavy brown hair, wearing a dark blazer over a gray top, smiling against a plain light gray background.

Baylee Richter, BS

Community Relations Manager

Baylee Richter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2024 and oversees digital campaigns, brand strategy, and community outreach and engagement. With more than eight years of experience in events and marketing, she has led initiatives that strengthen patient engagement, community awareness, and referral growth. Baylee holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Outside of work, she stays actively involved in the community through her service on the board of the American Lung Association. She also supports the American Cancer Society’s Cowford Ball as a member of the children’s art project committee and contributes to the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX program, serving on two committees. In her free time, Baylee enjoys spending time with her Australian Shepherd, Cooper, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.