Chief, Division of Breast Surgery
Director, Breast Fellowship Program
Professor, Department of Surgical Oncology
Attending Surgeon
Clinical Director, Breast Service Line
Breast Cancer
I am acutely aware of the impact that a breast cancer diagnosis has on an individual. I do my best to foster a positive environment in which to start my patients' course of treatment and take the time to explain the pros and cons of each treatment option, so that they can make an informed decision. My treatment philosophy also includes, not just an emphasis on successful treatment, but also preserving a good cosmetic outcome. I feel fortunate to be a fellowship trained, very highly specialized clinician practicing at Fox Chase Cancer Center, which is an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, because this combination of factors allows me, and our treatment team, to focus on one thing all day, every day, and do it well: curing breast cancer. Additionally, what may be rarely seen by others, such as unusual pathology results, complex cases, or rare clinical situations (such as male breast cancer or breast cancers whose primary tumor cannot be found), I see frequently. I enjoy using that experience to help individuals where it may be hard for them to find expertise for their specific concern. When it comes to curing breast cancers of all types, I think there is nothing more rewarding that I could do as a clinician.
Follow on Twitter: @RichardBleicher
Barbara Moore had always understood that exceptional care is about more than the treatment a patient receives. Just as important is finding a team that provides compassionate care and sees the whole person behind the diagnosis. After facing two cancer diagnoses in just over a year, that belief became more apparent—and more meaningful—than ever.
I’ve always been a healthy, active person. I don’t take any medications, I eat the best I can, and I walk at least two miles every day. I also get my routine mammogram every year.
In November 2023, I went in for my annual screening. Several days later, my doctor called to tell me they’d found a suspicious area, so I needed to go back for a follow-up mammogram and an ultrasound. After that, a biopsy confirmed that I had breast cancer.
There were a lot of things going on in my life when I first found a lump in my breast. My mother-in-law was in failing health, my two children were teenagers, and I was separating with my husband of 23 years. My life was in chaos; when I found the lump, it further added to that.
I’m 65 years old, and thanks to a 35-year career at the Department of Defense, I’ve been happily retired for just about a decade. I live in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, with my husband Bill, our dog Tess, short for Tess the Mess, and our cat Amoco, who is named for the gas station where we found her.
Health services research, breast imaging, breast cancer, population studies; Sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer; Novel treatment modalities for breast cancer; Breast cancer clinical trials; Breast imaging and cancer outcomes, Disparities in breast cancer, Male and female breast cancer.
Patient comments
Everything was explained and questions were answered
Dr. Bleicher is always very thorough 8n answering my questions and concerns. I feel that he's treating me as an individual case. He's knowledgeable and kind which is much appreciated!
Both Dr Bleicher and his Fellow went above and beyond at that time
Very concerned about everything!
No, everything went well as it always does and I love my nurse and my doctor. They are very friendly and concerned about the way I feel. After my visit I feel great!