Reflections of a Medical Oncologist: Empathy Matters in Caring for Patients With Cancer

Dr. Fazlur Rahman's book, 'Our Connected Lives: Caring for Cancer Patients in Rural Texas', chronicles his 35-year journey in oncology, focusing on the empathy required in patient care. Through the stories of patients like Clara and J.D., he highlights the resilience of cancer patients and the unique challenges they face, particularly in rural settings. Rahman emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in medical training to improve patient relationships and outcomes. The narrative reflects on how economic burdens can impact treatment decisions and quality of life for those diagnosed with cancer.