Authors

  1. Fisher, William B. MD, FACP

Article Content

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We Gather Tonight...

We gather tonight bound by a common thread-cancer

 

We search and pray for a positive answer

 

It is radiation, chemo... a clinical trial

 

Counseling, or exercise and walking a mile

 

Whatever the option we choose to pursue

 

Our bond is steadfast and ever so true

 

For from this bond comes strength and endurance

 

And positive thoughts to bring an assurance

 

That this place is good, loving and strong and

 

Together we will fight all day long

 

We will win some battles and some we will lose

 

But losing our hearts, minds or our souls....WE REFUSE!

 

William B. Fisher, MD, FACP, is a medical oncologist at Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Cancer Center and a founding member of the Hoosier Cancer Research Network.

 

A colleague, Melody A. Stanley, CNMT, RT(N), MS, Coordinator of Patient Education & Supportive Services, who submitted this poem, explains the background: "Each year the IU Health Ball Memorial Cancer Center holds a very special patient holiday party. Our staff, nurses, advanced providers, and even our oncologists join in to make the night memorable. There is entertainment, a cancer survivors choir, skits, singing, a brief moment of dancing-for those who feel up to the fun-refreshments, and fellowship, but most importantly we strive to make the evening one that our patients enjoy and look forward to each year.

  
William B. Fisher, M... - Click to enlarge in new windowWilliam B. Fisher, MD, FACP. William B. Fisher, MD, FACP

"This time, at the end of the evening Dr. Fisher recited the following poem that he wrote. He also referenced the great Jimmy Valvano and how his spirit, love, and humor inspired, and made sure that our patients knew they were our truest inspiration and heroes."