By Fern Nibauer-Cohen, Sr. Director, Strategic Communications and Market Development

On March 24, 2026, a powerful milestone was reached at the Froedtert & MCW Cancer Network: the first patient was successfully treated with proton therapy. It’s a moment that reflects not only technical achievement, but the collective dedication of clinical teams and partners working toward a shared purpose.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Katie Moffatt, Manager, Clinical Solutions and Training at Mevion, who recently marked just over a year with the company. With her deep clinical background and now her experience supporting sites on the vendor side, Katie brings a uniquely insightful perspective to these moments that matter most.

Fern: Katie, let’s start with today—what did this milestone at the Froedtert & MCW Cancer Network feel like in the moment?

Katie: It was truly a goosebump moment. When you see that beam turn on for the very first time for a patient, it just hits you. Everyone in the room feels it—it’s emotional in the best way. There’s a real sense of purpose and pride. You’re reminded immediately why we do this work.

Fern: You’ve been part of several milestones throughout your career. What stood out to you about today?

Katie: How smooth and coordinated everything felt. The team was prepared, confident, and completely aligned. That kind of environment makes all the difference. You could tell everyone was focused on the same goal—delivering the best possible care for that patient.

Fern: You came from the clinical side. How has it been experiencing these moments now as part of Mevion?

Katie: It’s been such a meaningful transition. When you’ve worked on the clinical floor, you understand exactly what these teams are feeling—the anticipation, the responsibility, the excitement. Now, being on the vendor side, I get to support them through it. I can relate to their experience and help make that first day as seamless as possible. That’s been really rewarding.

Fern: You mentioned that these milestones bring back memories from your clinical career. Can you talk more about that?

Katie: Definitely. Every major milestone stays with you—the first patient, pediatric cases, even things like the 100th patient. You remember those moments because they’re meaningful. Seeing the Froedtert & MCW Cancer Network at the start of that journey is exciting. They have so many of those milestones ahead, and it’s special to know what’s coming for them.

Fern: What impressed you most about the Froedtert & MCW Cancer Network team?

Katie: Their energy and collaboration. Everyone was engaged, present, and working together. It felt like a true team effort across the board. That kind of alignment creates a strong foundation—not just for go-live, but for long-term success.

Fern: This is one of your first go-lives with Mevion. How does it shape your perspective going forward?

Katie: It gives me a lot of confidence. Being part of a successful first patient experience reinforces how impactful our work is. It also sets the tone for future sites—what’s possible when preparation and teamwork come together. I’m really excited for what’s ahead.

Fern: If you could capture today in one takeaway, what would it be?

Katie: It always comes back to the patient. That’s the heartbeat of everything we do. Seeing that first treatment happens, it’s more than a milestone, it’s a moment of hope. Being part of that is something I don’t take for granted.

Milestones like the Froedtert & MCW Cancer Network first patient treatment are more than operational achievements—they’re deeply human moments that reflect the mission at the core of Mevion’s work. Congratulations to the Froedtert & MCW Cancer Network team, and to Katie Moffatt and everyone who helped bring this day to life.