Shikha Jain, Founder, Chair of the Board (Former CEO) at Women in Medicine and Associate Professor of Medicine at The University of Illinois Cancer Center, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Being an oncologist around the holidays brings both profound highs and deep lows.
Some days, I have the privilege of walking into a room to share news of remission—moments that are deeply meaningful and remind me why this work matters. Other days, including during the holidays, involve conversations about progression, hospice, and end of life. Those discussions are also deeply meaningful, but can feel especially heavy at this time of year.
I want patients and families to remember this: your oncologist is part of your team. We are here to guide you using evidence, clinical expertise, and experience—but we do not make these decisions for you. We do not go home with you. Only you know what aligns best with your life, your values, and your priorities.
Sometimes we thoughtfully time treatments or scans around family gatherings and important milestones. Sometimes we delay them so patients can fully be present for meaningful moments. Other times, patients want information sooner so they can either celebrate—or be surrounded by loved ones as they process difficult news. There is no single ‘right‘ approach. There is only the approach that is right for the individual.
The holidays can be joyful, but they can also be stressful and emotionally complex—particularly for those living with cancer, chronic illness, or significant personal challenges.
As this season unfolds, I hope we all take a moment to extend grace—to ourselves and to others. You never truly know what someone else may be carrying.”
More posts featuring Shikha Jain.