After being diagnosed with a serious cancer involving the face and neck, Ken initially sought consultation at UCLA. Ken appreciated the surgery and oncology expertise he received at UCLA, but he wanted to find experts close to home for his weeks of radiation therapy. He selected ROCVC with offices in his hometown of Camarillo. Ken met with Dr. Timothy O'Connor, co-director of ROCVC and assistant clinical professor at UCLA to determine a treatment plan.

"Dr. O'Connor immediately put me at ease," Ken said. "He explained the treatments and the possible side effects. He also asked me questions about my interests and activities. I told him I like to ski. He understood that I wanted to get back to the life I enjoyed as soon as possible."

For the radiation therapy on the face and neck sites, Ken had to wear a special mask and lie still. There was no discomfort. "I almost fell asleep," said Ken.

Dr. O'Connor told Ken about the decrease in saliva and skin tenderness that would come with this treatment. Ken used ointments on his skin, and his saliva production has nearly returned to normal.

Ken also began radiation therapy to follow-up his lung surgery. Two-thirds of the way through this therapy, doctors found skin cancer on his head. The dermatologist felt comfortable about removing one growth, but another presented problems for a surgical approach. Ken opted to have all the skin cancer treated with radiation at ROCVC.

With treatments finished, ROCVC continues to monitor Ken’s progress. "Dr. O'Connor and the staff have taken a long-term interest in me, and I appreciate it," Ken reported. "They know how important a good emotional outlook is to cancer recovery."

— Ken Hauselman

Prostate Cancer Treatment Patient Testimonial
"Four years ago when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I was given three treatment options: surgery, seed implantation or IMRT. I chose IMRT at Radiation Oncology Centers and couldn't feel better about my decision. The procedure was painless, relaxing and effective - and most importantly - I was able to maintain my normal quality of life."

— Paul Joseph, Ventura, CA

Skin Cancer Treatment Patient Testimonial
"After many years of surfing, I developed skin cancer on my back, shoulder, ears and scalp. I underwent both surgery and radiation therapy. I learned that surgery can't always get to the root of skin cancer, and that radiation is a less invasive and more thorough treatment. I was in good hands with Dr. O'Connor and his team. They are so wonderful, I actually enjoyed my treatment. I experienced no discomfort during the process."

— Jim Nash, Ventura, CA

Prostate Cancer Treatment Patient Testimonial
"I was diagnosed with prostate cancer after a routine PSA exam. I had a biopsy and was told the cancer was "more disorganized" than some others, indicating it was fast growing. I had a high PSA level and my cancer was rated an "8" out of 10 on the Gleason scale, which meant 'critical.' My urologist told me it was the best cancer to have because it’s the slowest growing. I learned about Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), the most advanced radiation treatment available, and discovered it was offered locally through Radiation Oncology Centers of Ventura County. Dr. O'Connor explained my options and we discussed them for at least an hour. I was impressed with how much time he spent with me. I felt he understood my issues, that he understands men. He knew what my fears were. I elected hormone therapy, high-density probes, IMRT radiation therapy and Brachytherapy, which is the implanting of radioactive seeds. The idea is to shrink and starve the cancer cells. I was very happy with the ROCVC team. They treat you like a human being. Every week I talked with either Dr. O'Connor or Dr. Montes regarding the status of my treatments and how I was feeling. The staff made me feel comfortable, particularly with modesty concerns. They have a positive attitude always, and they helped save my life."

— Skip Warner, Ventura, CA

Breast Cancer Treatment Testimonials
"The people at ROCVC are wonderful," she exclaimed. "They are kind, they listen, and they never make you feel crazy – whatever questions you ask. They tell you what works and make suggestions to help you through the treatment. I know Dr. O'Connor's heart and the sincerity of the people who work for him. They are all on the same page, containing various strengths that complement one another, and the place runs like a well-oiled machine. I never would have made it through treatment without Dr. O'Connor and the team."

— Glenda Dees, Chandler, AZ

"I am a nurse, and I deal with doctors and surgeons every day. I can tell immediately if a doctor really cares and Dr. O'Connor does. He and the team are absolutely wonderful. From the moment I met him I felt comfortable, like I could say or ask anything. My specialty is not in cancer, so Dr. O'Connor explained everything to me in plain English, and put everything on the line. He took the time needed to discuss all options with my husband and me, and I never felt rushed. He explained the history of treatments and how they have developed, and gave me statistics. He recommended a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy. Although this is very serious, his sense of humor helped put me at ease. I actually looked forward to going to radiation and seeing the staff. My relationship with the team became personal and emotional, with lots of hugs. They are responsive and all my calls were returned promptly. The entire team has been caring and considerate every step of the way."

— Sherrie McNellis

"I have had breast cancer and I have metastatic bone cancer. I call Dr. O'Connor my lifesaver. I wouldn't be where I am if not for him and the staff. They're almost like family. If he moved, I'd follow him. I trust him. I believe that as long as I have Dr. O'Connor I'm going to be fine. He always has a positive attitude, and there is never any negativity. Together we will do whatever it takes. We have a mantra we follow, saying, We will give up no more ground. I have been treated with IMRT, which I call 'spot welding.' They are sensitive to modesty issues and they are careful that I never feel violated. Everyone's attitude is considerate, caring and compassionate. The office is a team, and they work together with my oncologist and primary care physician, even down to working out the insurance details. Jackie called my insurance company on her own and wrote out instructions for me to take care of things. She went the extra mile. They make me feel comfortable and I look forward to going there."

— Sherri Douphner