Ashley Sumrall is an oncologist.
Do you remember when you were a bright-eyed pre-med student, head bowed at the computer, typing your personal statement? Type, type … backspace, backspace … type. You didn’t want to use the phrase “to help people” in your statement as your reason for wanting to be a physician. Maybe you said something like me. I mentioned how there were no doctors in my family, and I wanted to be the …
Over 30,000 visitors flocked to Chicago in early June to participate in the ASCO annual meeting, the summer mecca for all things oncology. In between plenary sessions and poster presentations, some attendees found their way to one of the Hamilton Chicago performances. Having opened in Chicago about seven months ago, this version of the “hip-hop musical” has packed in audiences, striving to capture some of the success that its New …
Earlier this month, a mourning widower stormed the office of the physician who had been providing life-saving cancer therapy to his young wife which failed. He shot and killed him. Or did he?
Before judging, let’s examine the facts associated with this case.
1. Juan Gonzalez, BCND was not a medical doctor. In fact, his “doctorate” was awarded via a naturopathic program. He did not possess, nor was required to possess a …
When I graduated from medical school, my dad gave me several hundred dollars with instructions to buy something special. It was a kind gesture, but the pressure to self-select a meaningful gift was almost too much.
I wanted something to commemorate my transition from student to doctor. Books, stethoscopes, and the like seemed so uninventive. I wanted something for residency that would be …
At age 37, after a nearly 2-year battle with stage IV lung cancer, a talented neurosurgeon lost his battle. My oncology-related newsfeed is filled with stories this week about this brave and clever man’s recent passing. In a field where the recent tweets tout results of the latest clinical trials (overall survival prolonged from 2 months to 4 months!), it is sobering to be reminded of what truly matters to …
Would you base a life or death decision based on one doctor’s opinion? One research article? Google searches? What would it take?
I recently read that Brittany Maynard took her own life. Plagued by glioblastoma, she chose to reject chemotherapy, radiation, and hospice. Tomorrow, I have a schedule packed with glioblastoma patients who personify courage, determination, and faith.
Glioblastoma (GBM) …
Get free updates delivered free to your inbox.
