Here to Live
When I was a first year student at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, a senior student got up to address us during orientation. He highlighted some orientation-related information. Then, he became very solemn.
He said, “Please show some decorum around here. Remember that people come here to die.”
That comment always stuck in my mind, and it wasn’t until months later that I realized why it bothered me so much.
I do not believe that cancer patients went to Roswell Park (or any other cancer institutes) to die. Cancer patients were there to fight for their lives. They were there to live.
I thought about how many students that person may have influenced with his perspective. It aggravated me that no one - including myself - challenged him. Perhaps they were like me, not understanding why the comment was bothering them, but not quite figuring it out until months later.
There is a widespread disconnect in perspectives of those who study cancer and those who live it. When I was a grad student in cancer biochemistry, I was removed from the human stories behind cancer even when I’ve scurried along the same hallways as patients who were wheeled around the hospital.
Now I wonder, how many grad students go through school learning about the people behind what they were studying?
Perspective on cancer matters not only to people living with cancer and to clinicians treating patients. Perspective matters to everyone - from graduate students researching cancer to individuals influencing social perception of cancer (teachers, community leaders.)
Perspective affects our decisions to detach or become indifferent. Perspective can also increase our awareness of and appreciation for individual courage in the fight against cancer.
Note: This was originally published in Scientist-Turned-Entrepreneur, which holds the copyright to the piece.
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POSTED IN: general commentary
3 opinions for Here to Live
Kristina
Apr 9, 2006 at 8:35 am
Jane, Thanks for sharing this—my dad is recovering from prostate cancer (he was cancer-free at the last appointment) and we’re only all reflecting on his and my mom’s experience. Also, two aunts have had breast cancer and one in particular has gone through a terrible lot, not only from the cancer. — In seeking help for our son Charlie who has autism, we have often encountered professionals who were highly competent in their field but lacked compassion, or at least the ability to show it. We drive almost two hours to take Charlie to see a pediatric neurologist because he really listens and he has been a huge help, needless to say.
Justice
Apr 10, 2006 at 4:32 am
It’s amazing how people look at a disease and losing seems to be an accepted word. I admire those who see it as a battle that can be won.
Jane Chin, Ph.D.
Apr 10, 2006 at 7:51 am
Many oncologists go through “sensitivity training” now. As medicine becomes more technology-based, and healthcare more efficiency-driven, there is a real danger of doctors losing sight of how their bedside manners affect how well their patients do.
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