Although funding for the Breast Cancer Initiative ended in late 1999, Brammer recognized the need for the continuation of an integrated regional program. McGregor was assigned to maintain close contact with breast cancer programs in six military treatment facilities and assist in special events, services, and projects.

One of McGregor’s research projects, “Military Women and Breast Cancer: Addressing Special Needs,” led to the development of clinical guidelines for ensuring the quality of care for military women diagnosed with breast cancer. The research took place at Madigan Army Medical Center. “Although the facility has a well-developed breast cancer diagnostic and treatment program, the needs and concerns of active duty women with breast cancer were not being met,” McGregor said. “These women not only face the physical and emotional issues of breast cancer, but as military women they are held to physical and duty standards not faced by civilian women.” Active duty women who were diagnosed with breast cancer were contacted and asked to submit a written record of problems encountered during and after their treatment. The results were compiled and recommendations for resolutions formulated into clinical guidelines that were sent to departments providing care for the women.

A current project of McGregor’s, “Individualized Alternative Lifestyle Enhancements in the Intra- and Post-Treatment Phases of Breast Cancer Patients,” is proposed to determine if exposure to alternative therapies improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients during the first year after diagnosis. The women choosing to participate will be placed in one of two groups: one having access to classes involving alternative therapies and one attending classes not involving alternative therapies. The use and effectiveness of alternative versus traditional therapies will be evaluated. If the project is not funded, a study will be instituted on a smaller scale.

Through it all, McGregor says she is pleased with the opportunities ORISE has given her to expand her knowledge. “It’s like going to school again but without the hassles and all the enjoyment of learning,” she said. “The ORISE program gives me the time and resources to build my research skills and network with members of the health profession throughout the country. I didn’t know what to expect from ORISE, but I’m fulfilled and at ease with what I’m doing through the program.”