For those of you who have been following my cancer journey, you know that my life changed suddenly last summer when I was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. I underwent amputation of half of my dominant right-hand thumb, underwent a sentinel node biopsy, and now am receiving a year of infusions of a drug called Keytruda. At this point, my most recent imaging studies revealed me to be free of recurrent disease, and I am scheduled to receive my next infusion of Keytruda later this month.

My Otolaryngology practice is picking up to a more normal pace of clinic, office surgeries, and operating room cases. I have developed a deeper relationship with my patients as I have transitioned from physician to patient and back to physician again. I appreciate all the prayers and support from so many of my patients that are following my progress through this website.

Yesterday, I met a new patient who presented with longstanding sinus problems.  As always, I reviewed her medical record, performed a physical examination, and made some treatment recommendations. As a physician of many years, sometimes I just have a “sixth sense” when something is not right with a patient. She had the look of anxiety and stress on her face. I stopped and made eye contact with her, and asked her, “Are you OK?” Tears began to flow from her eyes as she shared with me that her husband died suddenly this past November. He was in distress at home, and an ambulance was summoned, but he suffered cardiac arrest on the way to the hospital. She is now alone in Nashville, with no family close by. In addition, she is a cancer survivor, but has battled recurrence, and was scheduled for a whole-body PET scan the next day. My own health situation has given me a platform and testimony. I shared with her my battle with cancer and ongoing chemotherapy. We talked about how only cancer patients who have been there can really understand the anticipation and anxiety of the approaching date for imaging studies (MRI, CT, PET scans) that are part of routine surveillance and evaluating for recurrent disease. The waiting period prior to the study, the time spent in the scanner, and the waiting period for results can be agonizing. And then if the news is good, it is almost like a weight off one’s shoulders.

I asked her if she was a person of faith, and she said yes. I talked about our lives on earth, and how God helps us through our earthly suffering on the way to our eternal home where we will be restored with Him forever.  She has the same world view as me, and I believe she sincerely appreciated our “time-out” from her ENT problem. Sometimes, a doctor just needs to listen. Maybe we all should take the time to listen to others. Be kind because you never know what someone else is going through.

That’s all I have for today! Soon to follow are some cancer-beating health tips. Peace to all of you!