Our History
Pluta Cancer Center was established in 1975 at Genesee Hospital in Rochester, NY, through a generous gift from the Pluta family. As the hospital’s first dedicated cancer treatment facility, Pluta quickly became a trusted resource for comprehensive, multidisciplinary cancer care in the Rochester community. When Genesee Hospital closed in 2001, the Pluta family worked to keep Pluta Cancer Center open.
In March 2003, Pluta Cancer Center relocated to its current home at 125 Red Creek Drive in Henrietta, NY. It was New York’s first independent not-for-profit cancer center, offering advanced radiation therapy technology, chemotherapy treatment, and integrative oncology services, all delivered with a deeply patient-centered approach. 
In 2012, Pluta Cancer Center merged with Strong Memorial Hospital and the University of Rochester Medical Center. Through this partnership, patients continue to receive the compassionate care Pluta is known for, while benefiting from access to cutting-edge research, innovative technology, and clinical trials through the University.
Today, Pluta Cancer Foundation is a public charity dedicated to supporting the patients of Pluta Cancer Center and Wilmot Cancer Institute. The Foundation provides financial assistance to patients, funds clinical programs with a near-term impact on patient care, and offers evidence-based supportive services through Pluta Integrative Oncology & Wellness Center at no cost to patients.
The Pluta Family
Andy and Helen Pluta are the visionaries behind Pluta Cancer Center and are remembered by staff and patients for their kindness and compassion. Their belief that no patient should face cancer alone drives the work of the Foundation today.
Stories are often shared of how Andy would sit beside patients in the waiting room, offering to get them something to eat or drink, lending a listening ear, and providing comfort during difficult moments – never revealing who he was. His humility and genuine care left a lasting impression on everyone he met. After Andy passed away in 2008, Helen remained involved until her passing in 2026. She was known for her unwavering dedication: making phone calls, gathering donations, stuffing envelopes, and bringing humor to every interaction. Helen’s passion for Pluta Cancer Center was felt throughout the organization.
Today, the family ensures that Andy and Helen’s legacy continues through the involvement of their children and grandchildren, including daughter Barbara Pluta Randall, son Ron Pluta, and his wife Mary Pluta, who are members of the Board. Together, they carry forward the tradition of supporting cancer patients and their families.
