As a Molecular Geneticist and Oncologist, Jennifer Kelly, MD was quite familiar with Cancer patients and treatments.
Still, she was surprised to find herself responding in some of the same ways that her patients have. Most of all, she realized that she was no longer the doctor, but the patient.
Dr. Kelly wrote:
While I am still battling cancer and have not yet returned to work nor am I leading a normal life, my illness has changed me profoundly as a physician. No amount of doctoring can prepare you for being a patient. During the past year, I have endured multiple treatment methods, metastasis, and most recently the discovery of a brain tumor that threatens my eyesight. The past year has been full of the most vulnerable moments in my life.
If anything, it’s that recognition of vulnerability as well as expertise that makes me a better doctor today (medpageTODAY’s KevingMD.com).
ARTICLE RESOURCE
A diagnosis of stomach cancer profoundly changes an oncologist. Jennifer Kelly, MD, PHD. medpageTODAY’s KevinMD.com. February 2012.
Stock Photo. Dr. Kelly not in picture.