As I prepare to close this chapter of my life, winding down my clinic and stepping away from my role as a medical oncologist, I find myself navigating a complex mix of emotions—gratitude, sadness, and a quiet sense of anticipation. For the first time in my career, I am saying goodbye to patients and colleagues I’ve worked alongside for years. It’s a deeply bittersweet moment, as oncology has shaped not just my professional identity but also my personal journey. And now, I’m stepping into the unknown, leaving behind the familiar routine that has been my life’s work.
A Bittersweet Farewell to My Patients
The hardest part of this transition is saying goodbye to my patients. For many, our relationship has spanned years of treatments, consultations, and shared hope. Together, we’ve waged war against cancer—facing multiple rounds of immunotherapy, targeted therapies, clinical trials, surgeries, and radiation. These weren’t just treatments; they were battles, and we fought them side by side, accumulating scars both visible and invisible.
Now, as I see these patients in the clinic for one of the last times, my focus remains on their immediate needs—whether we’re discussing treatment options or long-term surveillance plans. I assure them that while I may be stepping away, their care will remain in the skilled hands of my nurse practitioner and trusted colleagues. They will continue to receive the same level of care and attention, even after I’m gone.
But when I share that I’ll be stepping away, the moment often shifts. After a long conversation about their care, I gently break the news that this will be our last meeting. What follows is almost always an emotional exchange—a heartfelt hug, a selfie to capture the moment, and the unspoken acknowledgment that this might be our last time together. It’s in these quiet, final moments that the weight of this transition really hits home. Saying goodbye to patients I’ve known for so long is a reminder of the deep connection that exists between physician and patient—a bond forged in trust, vulnerability, and hope. I wish them all the best in their survival and quality of life, and I carry the privilege of having been part of their journey with me.
A Time for Family and Personal Growth
While leaving the clinic is difficult, it is the right time for me to refocus on another essential part of my life—my family. After 26 years of marriage, my wife and I are looking forward to spending more time together and nurturing our growth as a couple. My two teenage daughters are at an age where they still need me, and I want to be there for them in ways that my demanding schedule didn’t always allow. In November, we’re taking a special three-week family trip to Japan—a dream we’ve had for years. Then, in December, we’ll be embarking on another long trip to further strengthen our family bond with my two little boys.
Beyond family, I’m also eager to focus on my own personal growth—physically, spiritually, and emotionally. For years, I’ve been immersed in the clinic full-time, with little room for self-reflection. Now, with the clinic reduced to half days, I find myself enjoying the quiet moments, the slower pace, and the opportunity to invest in myself. This time feels like a gift, allowing me to recharge and reflect after years of intense work. I’m finally giving myself the space to grow outside of the oncology world.
Looking Toward the Future
As October draws closer and my time in the clinic comes to an end, I realize this is not a permanent goodbye to oncology. It’s more of a pause—a necessary time to focus on what matters most to me. I will be spending the remaining months of this year reconnecting with family, reflecting on life, and contemplating what the future holds. I know that my passion for oncology will always remain, and as 2025 approaches, I’ll be considering new opportunities and new challenges with a renewed sense of purpose.
To my patients, my colleagues, and the incredible staff I’ve worked with, thank you. The past 13 years have been an extraordinary journey—one filled with both triumphs and challenges. The lessons I’ve learned, the relationships I’ve built, and the lives we’ve touched together will stay with me always. As I step into this next chapter, I do so with deep gratitude and a heart full of hope for what lies ahead.
About the Author
Dr. Thomas is a distinguished medical professional and a compassionate guide in the field of oncology. With over a decade of dedicated experience as a board-certified medical oncologist/internal medicine specialist, Dr. Thomas has become a trusted expert in the treatment of melanoma, sarcoma, and gastrointestinal conditions. With his many years of experience, he brings a wealth of expertise to the complex and challenging world of oncology. About Dr Thomas – MedOncMD