The Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, located in Truckee, California, is committed to providing the highest quality cancer treatment and care to our patients. We strive to offer the most current cancer diagnostic therapeutic modalities, creating a Model for Rural Cancer Care.

With equipment and technology on par with urban health systems, including Varian TrueBeam radiation therapy, the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center offers medical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment, PET/CT scan, CT scan, ultrasound, digital mammography, chemotherapy infusion, pharmacy and lab, in addition to a comprehensive physical therapy, family support program and psychosocial services program.

Some of the best opportunities for clinical trials exist through the cancer center’s affiliation with the UC Davis Cancer Care Network. Benefits of clinical trials include new drugs, therapies, and treatment strategies for difficult to treat cancers. UC Davis is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, one of only 59 in the country.

Hi, my name is Ahrin Koppel. I’m the medical director of the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center. Here at the Cancer Center, we’re proud to provide exceptional cancer care right here in the heart of our own community. We have one simple mission: to deliver compassionate, expert care close to home. Our team offers personalized plans using advanced technologies and evidence-based medicine. Our services include medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care, all under one roof.

As an affiliate of the UC Davis Cancer Care Network, through clinical trials, we’re able to bring some of the most advanced technologies and treatments right into our rural community. We believe in treating the whole patient, not just the disease. So, we offer services like nutrition counseling, psychology services, and even acupuncture and massage. Our nurse navigation team is also here to help guide patients through transitional times.

For example, when a patient is first diagnosed with cancer, it can be very challenging and uprooting. And it’s a difficult time. But we’re here. We’re here to make it easier and help make sense of it all. What truly sets us apart is the genuine relationships we’re able to build with our patients, creating an experience rooted in trust, compassion, and quality care. We’re here every step of the way for our patients and their families.

Cancer care is not just about treatment. It’s about healing, support, and community. At the Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, we are honored to serve our friends, neighbors, and families during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Thank you for trusting us with your care. My name is Dr. Aaron Copel, medical director of the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center. Thanks for listening.

“I appreciate their confidence. They always make us feel like there is hope. This place and its staff are amazing.”

Our mission

Since its inception in 2006, the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center has provided cancer treatment to the residents of Truckee, North Lake Tahoe and beyond. The mission of this important and growing program is to provide the most current and appropriate high quality cancer care with honesty, support and compassion.

UC Davis Affiliation

UC Davis Cancer Care Network Affiliate

The UC Davis Cancer Care Network works together in Northern California to offer patients first-rate, leading-edge care close to home. Hospital-based community cancer centers become affiliates of the UC Davis Cancer Care Network through an evaluation process led by UC Davis. By synergizing the strengths of an academic health system and community-based care, the affiliation formalizes the commitment to collaboration with community providers promoting the delivery of first-rate care across the region.

Affiliates of the UC Davis Cancer Care Network include:

  • Adventist Health and Rideout Cancer Center, Marysville
  • Enloe Health Regional Cancer Center, Chico
  • Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, Truckee
  • Marshall Cancer Center, Cameron Park