Improving Cancer Care in West Texas: The Importance of Bedside Manner

As someone who has battled cancer multiple times, and spent years raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Cancer Research Hospital and breast cancer awareness, I, Rudy Fearless Fernandez, have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by those battling this disease. The toll it takes on both patients and their loved ones is immense. Throughout my journey, I've had the privilege of meeting many dedicated doctors, but one concern has consistently surfaced, and many feel that today’s doctors lack the bedside manner that was once more prevalent in patient care.

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Fazlur Rahman, an esteemed oncologist who has spent 35 years caring for cancer patients in rural Texas. Dr. Rahman, who now teaches at Angelo State University, emphasizes the importance of treating patients as whole people, not just as cases to be managed. His upcoming book, "OUR CONNECTED LIVES: Caring for Cancer Patients in Rural Texas," offers a profound look into the lives of his patients and the impact that a compassionate bedside manner can have.

In his book, Dr. Rahman shares stories of patients who faced unique challenges, and how a doctor’s evolving bedside manner made a significant difference in their care. He highlights the importance of empathy in medicine, particularly in the context of cancer care, where understanding the patient's life and circumstances can be as crucial as the treatment itself. This book is not just a guide for doctors, but a call to all of us to better care for our loved ones battling this relentless disease.

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Dr. Rahman's book is due out in late October 2024 and is promising to be a helpful book to keep handy when caring for our loved ones.