The New England Journal of Medicine has published a personal essay by oncologist Don Dizon exploring the emotional impact of cancer striking close to home.
The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) posted on social media this week to share a new entry in its NEJM Voices blog series. Written by Don Dizon, MD, an oncologist, the piece is titled “When Cancer Hits Home” and describes his response to learning that a colleague had been diagnosed with cancer.
According to the NEJM post, Dizon reflects on the profound shock that can follow such a diagnosis — even for a medical professional who works with cancer patients regularly. The blog series gives clinicians and researchers a space to write in a more personal register than standard academic papers allow.
Cancer affects more than 403,000 people in the UK each year, according to Cancer Research UK. For health professionals, a colleague’s diagnosis can carry a particular weight — sitting at the intersection of clinical knowledge and personal grief.
The essay is available through the NEJM Voices platform, where readers can also sign up for email alerts about new posts.
If You Need Support
- Anyone concerned about cancer symptoms should contact their GP in the first instance or call NHS 111
- Macmillan Cancer Support offers a free helpline at 0808 808 00 00, available Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm
- For emotional support at any time, Samaritans is available 24 hours a day on 116 123
Source: @NEJM