Review of “The Cancer Experience: The Doctor, The Patient, The Journey”

Dr. Sessions also covers complex issues, including malignancies diagnosed during pregnancy and physician-assisted suicide, from the perspective of both a physician and a philosopher. He supplements a well-annotated philosophical discussion of personal experiences that illustrate his points. As a reflection of the degree of introspection, he cites examples of how he did things right, and a few situations he wishes he could have an opportunity to handle differently.

“The Cancer Experience” is not a quick read, due to thoughtful coverage of serious and complex philosophical issues. Dr. Sessions has summarized the patient-centric theory with supporting illustrative stories that make this philosophical concept real, and I found it very thought provoking. I believe it should be required reading for premed students and residents before they enter the real world of medical practice. Practicing physicians would also benefit greatly from this book, because one cannot read it without reflecting on one’s own personal experiences. I believe all health care professionals need to periodically check their professional moral compasses, and this book can assist in achieving that laudable goal.