Mercy Health is proud to announce its oncology program has been selected as one of only eight in the United States to participate in a groundbreaking clinical trial focused on compression cap therapy. The goal is to reduce hair loss in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
“Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is more than just a physical change. It’s a profound shift in identity, self-image, and control. Acknowledging and addressing this impact is crucial, as it empowers patients to regain some control over their journey, reminding them that while cancer may take much, it doesn’t define who they are. Supporting their emotional well-being through this challenge can restore a sense of dignity and strength amidst the fight for health,” explained Mercy Health Clinical Research Nurse Chaundra Foss-Blizard.
This groundbreaking trial, developed by Irish startup Luminate, introduces a specialized device that applies gentle pressure across the scalp to reduce hair loss during treatment. The technology provides a promising alternative to current methods, offering patients a potential way to preserve their hair and their confidence throughout the treatment process.
“The Lily technology is an innovative new approach to preventing hair loss for chemotherapy patients in a portable, comfortable, and easy-to-use way. We are incredibly excited to work with the Mercy Health team at Springfield and Urbana on the rollout of this technology as one of the first locations in the entire United States to have access to it. The dedication of this team to their patients and to research is outstanding – working with them as one of only a few sites across the US was an easy decision for Luminate," said Aaron Hannon, Co-Founder & CEO of Luminate.
The Lily device is an investigational device and is not currently cleared by the FDA for sale in the United States. Information on the PREVAIL clinical trial can be found on ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06786078.
Mercy Health launched the trial on March 6, 2025, administering the first compression cap therapy to a patient at its new Urbana Cancer Center. A second patient began treatment at the Springfield Cancer Center on March 17, 2025, further extending the reach of this promising therapy within the local community.
"This initiative is another step in our commitment to enhancing patient care, not only by offering advanced treatments that address medical needs, but also by supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of our patients. We are optimistic this therapy will greatly improve the quality of life for those undergoing chemotherapy,” said Lisa Gibson, Mercy Health’s Director of Oncology Services.
In addition to participating in the Lily Device Trial from Luminate Medical, Mercy Health’s oncology program offers access to cancer care through its longstanding affiliation with the Columbus NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP). This partnership broadens access to cancer prevention and treatment protocols, reinforcing our commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Moreover, the health system collaborates with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) via the Healthy State Alliance to enhance specialized care, connecting patients with leading oncology experts and integrating early-phase academic research opportunities. Mercy Health – Springfield’s commitment to excellence is further emphasized by its full accreditation from the Commission of Cancer (CoC), ensuring the highest standards in cancer treatment and services.
Also part of Mercy Health’s efforts to reduce cancer-related statistics in the local patient population is the opening of the Karen Teusink Integrated Breast Center at its Springfield Cancer Center, providing coordinated care consultations. This allows patients to meet with their entire care team in a single appointment, rather than multiple visits on different days for individual consultations.
Additionally, Mercy Health is working to add a new linear accelerator at the Mercy Health – Springfield Cancer Center this year. This equipment, which uses ionizing radiation to treat tumors, will expand radiation therapy options for local patients.
Whether you already have been diagnosed with cancer or are looking to understand your cancer risk, Mercy Health offers an experienced team of oncology specialists who provide high-quality cancer care.