Page 17 - 2019 Annual Report
P. 17
Sound Off
“Why do oncology clinics install the victory bell in the infusion room or lobby, usually within earshot of terminal patients? Is it important to continue this celebratory tradition, even if it brings sadness and tears to a minority of terminal patients?
The bell’s potential negative psychological influence on other patients with poor prognoses may explain why a small number of cancer centers have chosen to replace the victory bell. My hope is that more cancer centers consider following these positive examples.”
Gale is already thinking of ways to improve how we care—how medical practice cares—for our patients with terminal cancer.
When Kevin J. Gale, a first-year medical student, wrote to JAMA Oncology, it was from the heart of his own experience with his mother’s cancer treatments.
Department of Microbiology and Immunology celebrates 100 years.
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