(Fresno, Calif.) – Dr. Vonda Crouse, a hematologist/oncologist at Valley Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Fresno Madera Medical Society on November 19. Dr. Crouse has been providing care to pediatric hematology/oncology patients at Valley Children’s for 37 years.
“I was so pleased and surprised to receive this award,” said Dr. Crouse. “With more than four decades in pediatric oncology, it has been quite a ride that I am so proud to be part of.”
Dr. Crouse was the first pediatric oncologist in the Central Valley and established the Valley’s first pediatric oncology program, which evolved into the Valley Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center we know today. She has also served as the principal investigator for the Children’s Oncology Group protocol at Valley Children’s since 1980.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Crouse regularly volunteers at Camp Sunshine Dreams, a weeklong summer camp for children with cancer. The camp offers children with cancer and their siblings the opportunity to enjoy a summer camp experience, while also providing on-site medical staff and opportunities for emotional support and connection.
“Dr. Crouse is more than deserving of this recognition,” said Dr. Vinod Balasa, medical director of Valley Children’s Cancer and Blood Diseases Center. “Her commitment to the Center, our staff and – most importantly – to the children of the Central Valley is an inspiration to healthcare professionals in Fresno and beyond.”
A beloved fixture at Valley Children’s, Dr. Crouse was named Physician of the Year in 2020, an award voted upon by Valley Children’s own staff and physicians that recognizes extraordinary contributions to improving healthcare and customer service.