To provide the information your oncologist is not telling you or doesn't have the time to!
Exploring the Human Side of Cancer Through Art and Stories
Immerse yourself in the human experience of cancer through our “Art of Oncology” category. Here, we delve into the emotional and personal aspects of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Explore stories of courage, resilience, and hope shared by survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Experience the healing power of art, creativity, and storytelling as we navigate the profound impact of cancer on individuals and their families.
Medical malpractice is a difficult subject in our profession. It evokes emotion, judgment, and often criticism—especially toward those who serve as expert witnesses. As an oncologist who has reviewed hundreds of cases over the last decade, I understand the hesitations. Most of my work in this space focuses not on standard of care, but on …
As an oncologist and medical reviewer, I’ve had the unique opportunity to evaluate more than a hundred disability-related cases over the past six months. These cases span a wide range of cancer types, treatment timelines, and patient recovery experiences. What’s become abundantly clear is the disconnect that can sometimes occur between well-meaning clinical advocacy and …
I was recently asked to write a letter of recommendation for one of my former clinical research coordinators—a young professional I had the privilege of working with for nearly two years. What I expected to be a routine task turned into something much more meaningful. It was an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the …
As clinicians, we’re taught to advocate fiercely for our patients—but far less is said about advocating for ourselves. This week, I learned just how valuable that can be. For the first time in my career, I engaged a healthcare law firm—not because of a lawsuit, malpractice case, or legal battle, but simply to make sure …
As I wrap up my recent assignment in Montana, I’m excited to begin a new locum role closer to home on the East Coast—working a Monday through Wednesday schedule, with weekends off and time to recharge. It’s a thoughtful balance that supports the type of sustainable, high-quality care I aim to deliver, and I’m fortunate …
As a medical oncologist practicing across various healthcare settings nationwide, I often reflect on the deeply human side of medicine—the day-to-day challenges, emotional complexities, and clinical decision-making that shape patient care. One of the ways I’ve found to process and share those insights is through storytelling—offering blog readers a glimpse into the world of oncology …
Ok… here’s the drawback of doing locum work as a generalist coming after 14 years of specialty focus practice: I may see things I haven’t seen since I was fellow! Like this case below… enjoy my stress on call! Also, great news! I am close to signing a new contract with a new hospital system …
Just got back from family spring break vacation and sincerely appreciative of the great feedback I was getting after changing the format of the blog to personal stories from the clinic and every day life as a medical oncologist. I’ll still include updates with FDA approvals or interesting topics from the current news every so …
The Patient’s Story Yesterday, I met a patient whose story was both heartbreaking and inspiring. A young woman, recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), sat alone in the exam room. Typically, younger patients come with a support system—spouses, parents, friends—but she was alone. It was my first clue that her journey …
This week, I encountered a situation that weighs heavily on me as a nurse but raises an important question in the oncology world. As a clinical trial nurse, we typically only see our patients at research-specific visits. It’s likely that several weeks can go by without any contact, making each visit a critical touchpoint. Imagine …