Finding hope in the difficult moments

One of the most difficult conversations Dr. Alex Brown faced during his medical career was telling one of his patients that she had developed the same blood cancer that had taken her husband's life six months earlier. I thought 'that can't be right; that's just not fair,'" said Dr. Brown, a medical oncologist at Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Center. "It was really hard to make it through that conversation."

These moments test every oncologist, but for Dr. Brown, they also reinforce his conviction about his calling. "I have no job, no purpose but to help my patients," he said.

His path to medical oncology began during his undergraduate studies in psychology with plans to become a psychiatrist. His interest in Eastern philosophy and religion shaped his early academic focus, but medical school redirected him to oncology. He discovered that psychology and oncology go hand-in-hand in helping to fortify people's resolve when faced with a cancer diagnosis.

Dr. Brown's faith informs his patient care approach that extends beyond medical treatment to what he calls "sharing space" with patients. "I believe in remaining hopeful, even when patients are facing a terminal illness," he said. "Whether that means pursuing treatments, going into remission or living out each day, I let them know that I'm gonna be with them to the best of my abilities throughout the whole process."

His approach to the doctor-patient relationship emphasizes patient autonomy. He tells each new patient: "You're the president. I'm your advisor. I went to school for a long time to serve you and be your advisor, but you're the one who makes the decisions.

"When I say that, people often start to tear up a little bit," Dr. Brown said. "I think it gives them some sense of control in a time when they've lost all control."

What sustains Dr. Brown through the emotional demands of oncology is witnessing human resilience. "I'm inspired by my patients all the time," he said. "I don't know if I would be as brave and courageous as they are, taking it day by day, tackling each moment and finding real joy despite really difficult scenarios."

These encounters restore his faith. "During a normal day in the clinic, I meet people who you would want as neighbors, showing great strength during their most difficult times," he said. " As much as I try to give to my patients, I receive so much in return by walking alongside them."