Elephants and Tea: Hodgkin Lymphoma Issue 2021 - 3

Conversation
LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE MEDICAL DIRECTOR AT SEAGEN
The Importance of
Self-Advocacy with
Hodgkin Lymphoma
MICHELLE FANALE, M.D. , EXECUTIVE
MEDICAL DIRECTOR, LYMPHOMA STRATEGY,
SEAGEN
O
ver the course of my career and having previously been on the frontlines
of treating patients with Hodgkin lymphoma as a practicing hematologist/
oncologist at a large academic cancer center for more than a decade, I have
seen firsthand how it can be a truly scary and overwhelming experience,
leaving patients and their family and friends often flooded with many questions
and emotions.
If you have been newly diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, I would like to share
a couple of thoughts to hopefully help you on your way. One of the most important
things to do first is to find an oncologist that you feel comfortable with-someone
who is caring and has the knowledge and expertise to answer your questions about
your diagnosis and treatment. Your interaction should never feel like a one-way
conversation, it should be a partnership based on trust, mutual respect, and information
sharing.
Your best chance at putting the diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma permanently
behind you is with the first-line treatment plan, so it is essential that you know your
options and have all the information you need to make the right decision for you.
While treatment for newly diagnosed Hodgkin lymphoma should be initiated very
soon, it is also important to feel confident in the treatment plan you are embarking
on, so please consider asking your oncologist for a bit more time or consider a second
opinion if you feel unsure. Speaking as a physician, I would encourage you to get the
clarity you need to minimize any lingering concerns or worry about what lies ahead.
Finally, I think it's very important to be an active advocate for yourself throughout
your entire care experience, which is why I'm so excited about this special issue
of Elephants & Tea. I hope it inspires you to speak up, ask questions, communicate
your needs, connect with others, and reach out to get the help you need along the
way. Being an advocate and partnering with your healthcare team gives you more
control over your cancer, which will help you feel confident, remain positive, and
give you hope towards reaching the best possible outcome. l
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HODGKIN LYMPHOMA ISSUE 2021
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Elephants and Tea: Hodgkin Lymphoma Issue 2021

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