Meeting the people behind the 'care'

When I think about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I try to become more aware of what I do to stay one step ahead of my cancer.

Among my favorite activities is reaching out -- to those who are fighting cancer, to their family members, to my doctors and to the hospitals where they practice. Not only are more patients living longer than ever, but also the hospitals where they go for treatments and regular checkups are being more taxed for space.

I want to cry every time I see my oncologist crammed into a tiny corner, entering patient records into a computer.

I sat next to David J. Winchester Jr., senior attending physician for the department of surgery at Evanston/Northwestern Healthcare, at a recent dinner for doctors and patients. I asked him the same question I always ask my oncologist.

"What's on your wish list?"

Both would love more space, but selflessly add "for our patients."

To that end, ENH is conducting a campaign to increase the size of the Kellogg Cancer Care Centers at Evanston, Glenbrook and Highland Park hospitals so patients can get "downtown compassionate care in suburban teaching hospitals." When I heard about it, I jumped in with both feet.

While I'm thinking of ways to help, I don't have time to worry about my cancer. As I talk to members of my medical team, I see and hear more than outstanding training and practice. I feel devoted practitioners.

A friend went so far as to ask me, "Don't you think that Dave Winchester has an aura about him?"

At the dinner, I asked him what he thought of that question. He seemed at a loss for words, but grinned anyway. It's OK for patients to engage in good-natured teasing.

It's also OK for patients to help their doctors realize their dreams. On my way home from the dinner, I happened to run into a man who was looking for a way to honor the memory of his sister, who had died of cancer a few years ago.

I immediately pointed him in the direction of those who are raising funds for the buildings. I have to stay healthy so I can stumble onto others who want to do the same.

Auras become more powerful when doctors are happy.