Home: Bend, OR. Age: 55. Birthplace: Portland, OR. Profession: Physician, medical oncologist and hematologist. Organization: St. Charles Cancer Center. Title: Medical Director of Medical Oncology. Pronouns: My husband, the love of my life, Geoff Tiffany.
Current project: Beginning a podcast/radio show called Cancer Conversations. Recent professional development: Being appointed Medical Director of Medical Oncology at St. Charles Cancer Center. Latest accomplishment: Completed the DriTri at Orange Theory Fitness. Latest contribution to others: $25,000 donation to the St. Charles Hospital Foundation. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Training at Massachusetts General Hospital for my internship and residency. Hobbies: Playing classical piano, hiking, biking, skiing. Recent travel or adventure: Skiing on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Caring. Moral compass: How would I want a family member treated in this situation? What is your greatest joy? My family’s happiness. What is your greatest fear? Making a fatal mistake in the care of a patient. What natural talent have you neglected? Classical pianist. What is your great professional or personal strength? Listening to my patients and working with them to come up with a treatment plan that they are willing to accept.
What was your favorite college course? Human Biopsychology. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? Astronaut Sally Ride. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Strive for excellence in whatever you decide to pursue. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Medicine will take from you and your life as much as you give it, and you must protect time for yourself, your loved ones, and your hobbies. What professional advice you regularly give? Be conscious of what you eat, exercise regularly and attend regular health screenings, especially cancer screenings.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Preventing physician burnout. What mega-trend most concerns you? Distrust and anger between the two main U.S. political parties.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? The Making of a Beloved Oncologist. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A veterinarian. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Photo albums. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? Paddleboarding with my family on a peaceful lake in the full sunshine. What advice would you give your younger self? Your best effort is good enough.
Personal mission: Take the best possible care of patients with cancer and their families. Personal motto: Never give up. Favorite quote: “Success isn’t about how much money you make: it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives” (Michelle Obama). Desired epitaph: She healed many and guided those she couldn’t heal to find peace.
