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Even when the masks were on, you could tell people were smiling at VCU Massey Cancer Center’s Goodwin Research Laboratory last Friday as staff, clinicians, researchers and others gathered in the lobby and Healing Garden for an ice cream social. It was one of the first in-person events Massey has hosted since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Everyone has done a tremendous job adapting to our new normal, but some members of our clinical teams were telling me that they were feeling a bit disconnected,” said Katie Barnes, vice president of the Cancer Service Line at VCU Health and Massey Cancer Center. “I talked to some of my colleagues in Massey’s administrative and clinical units and we agreed this could be a nice way to provide some much-needed socialization.”

Armed with ice cream scoops, Massey’s clinical leaders served up dozens of cups and cones to anyone who happened to stop by between 2-4pm. Hot fudge and a trove of toppings were available, and conversation flowed in Massey’s lobby in a way it hasn’t in more than a year.

“It was great to see new and old faces and serve so many of our team members,” said Khalid Matin, M.D., medical oncologist and associate medical director of the Cancer Service Line at Massey as well as interim chair of the Division of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care at the VCU School of Medicine. “I’m proud of the way we have come together to continue our vital research, education and clinical care during the pandemic, and this was a perfect opportunity to say thank you.”

Continue to watch a brief slide show featuring pictures of the event!

Written by: John Wallace, M.S.