In 2002, an estimated 45,800 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in Michigan according to the American Cancer Society. To combat these odds, St. John Health System of Detroit has opened the state-of-the-art, 69,000-square-foot VanElslander Cancer Center. Designed by Detroit-based HarleyEllis, the Cancer Center provides diagnostic and therapeutic cancer treatments within five individual centers.
The Liggett Breast Center provides education, early detection, risk factor information, screening and treatment options.
The Meade Pediatric Hematology Oncology Center serves children from birth to age 21, providing multi-disciplinary cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The Healing Arts Center features services to strengthen the spirit including message, reflexology, meditation, yoga, music therapy and holistic assessment.
The Cracchiolo Radiation Center offers state-of-the-art treatment options through two linear accelerators with photon, electron and dose intensity modulating treatment capabilities, a CT scanner, and radiation physics equipment.
The Infusion Center is a large, open, airy space to relax within while undergoing treatment. 
Extensive “complementary medicine” modalities are also available including aromatherapy, nutrition, massage therapy, herbal closet and meditation.
Located on St. John Hospital and Medical Center’s Moross campus in Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., the building’s concern for human needs is reflected through the quality of its interior environment. A soft palette enhanced with the warmth of wood, provides a soothing background for the variety of diagnostic, treatment and support spaces. Its exterior focuses on a cylindrical entrance featuring abundant natural light and a rich-toned interior lobby. A concierge desk is prominently located to coordinate programs at the Center, as well as transportation, nutrition and other external support services. 
Coinciding with the Center’s holistic service offerings, a healing garden and labyrinth walk were created as a place of meditation and relaxation. The 22-foot Santa Rosa Labyrinth, based on the pattern created by Lea Goode in 1997 for the Angela Center in Santa Rosa, Calif. was installed. This modern labyrinth incorporates seven circuits, or concentric paths, with a “heart-space” on the fourth path approachable from four directions. The labyrinth is framed in an octagon, reminiscent of baptismal fonts symbolizing rebirth. To enhance mind and body healing, HarleyEllis surrounded the labyrinth with a healing garden containing Redspire Pear, Greenlane Euonymus, Japanese Anemone, Hosta, mixed Daffodil and annuals.
Architects and engineers HarleyEllis led a project team with construction managers, Barton Malow of Southfield, Mich. and interior designers, Ford & Earl Associates of Troy, Mich. Notable consultants include civil engineers, Tucker Young Jackson Tull Inc. of Detroit and structural engineers, Desai/Nasr Consulting of West Bloomfield, Mich. The center was occupied in August 2001.

Manufacturers/Suppliers
DIV 04: Brick: The Belden Brick Company.
DIV 07: Roof: Firestone.
DIV 08: Revolving Door: Horton Automatics.
DIV 09: VCT: Armstrong; Carpet: Interface.