Groundhog Friends

Posted November 9th, 2012

I’m often asked how to be a friend to someone with cancer. I generally answer this question by encouraging them to be good listeners and to be present for their friend in every sense of the word. The best friends are what I describe as “groundhog friends.” Remember the movie Groundhog Day with Bill Murray? […]


Why Aren’t They Doing More?

Posted November 7th, 2012

I sometimes get asked various versions of this question: “My father has advanced cancer, but they don’t seem to be treating him very aggressively. Why aren’t they doing surgery to remove the metastases in his lungs and liver?”


Stepping Up for Neighbors

Posted September 10th, 2012

In today’s column, I’d like to recognize a small group of people who step up to support a neighbor, a community member, or an acquaintance who would otherwise go through cancer alone.


Communicating With Your Doctor

Posted August 17th, 2012

I’m always struck that some people diagnosed with cancer want to know absolutely everything about their disease while others just want to be told when to show up for treatment. Some people complain that their doctors give them too much information while others complain that their doctors give them too little. Every doctor I’ve known […]


Advice For Those Newly Diagnosed

Posted August 8th, 2012

The first few days following a cancer diagnosis are like riding on top of a speeding train. You’re hanging on for dear life and can’t quite see what’s ahead.


Many Thanks

Posted July 16th, 2012

When I visit individuals receiving cancer treatment, I routinely hear words of appreciation intended for those who been helpful, kind and supportive.


Clinical Trials

Posted July 5th, 2012

People diagnosed with cancer often wonder if they should participate in a clinical trial.


Cancer As A Chronic Disease

Posted July 2nd, 2012

More and more people are living with cancer – Bob takes a look at living with cancer as a “chronic disease.”


Cancer-Related Anxiety

Posted June 20th, 2012

The days following a cancer diagnosis are almost always filled with anxiety.


The After Treatment Blahs

Posted June 11th, 2012

Transitioning to being a survivor is often a difficult time. Bob presents some tips for making this a smooth transition.