SquamousCellCarcinomaofSkin near High Point, NC

Biography: One of the hardest things anyone can do is face a cancer diagnosis. \n While I was in medical school, a close friend learned he had cancer. With most current treatment modalities unavailable in our country - Nepal - at the time, the disease took its toll. I witnessed the physical suffering and emotional turmoil he endured. I saw the far-reaching consequences cancer can have on people's lives, their work, their relationships. \n But at the same time, I was learning about new and promising treatment options that were giving hope to millions. This, I realized, was an area of medicine that would allow me to have an impact on patients' quality of life and their very survival. \n The following year, I began my residency with a mission statement: "To practice medicine with vigor and enthusiasm, serve the ideals of goodness and beauty through medicine and to love what I do, for it shall enrich patients' lives as well as my own." \n There were such exciting advancements being made in hematology and oncology. I wanted to be part of that work, so I embarked on a challenging, yet rewarding, career as a hematologist and oncologist. \n Delivering compassionate care and developing long-term relationships with patients are as rewarding as I thought they'd be when I was a medical student. I love to take the complexity of cancer and try to simplify it so my patients understand their disease and treatment plan. \n I appreciate being part of Novant Health, because we believe in taking care of the whole patient, not just an organ. And not just their disease. And we practice the art, as well as the science, of medicine. \n My wife, who's also originally from Nepal, and I and have two daughters, and we love spending time together as a family. I enjoy all manner of outdoor activities, especially playing tennis.

Biography: Dr. Jacks attributes her decision to work in oncology to her mentors in basic science labs and clinical units. They introduced her to promising advances in oncology research and deepened her appreciation for the oncologist-patient relationship. She has a clinical focus in head, neck and thoracic cancers, including lung and esophageal diseases. Dr. Jacks believes the best way to fight these and other forms of cancer is through prevention. She helps patients choose a healthy lifestyle that decreases cancer risks. Dr. Jacks is a Charleston native and is happy to be back in the Carolinas with her husband, Sam Jacks, a cardiothoracic surgeon, and their son, George. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, cooking and traveling.

Biography: Dr. Sarah Koch, MD is a Dermatologist who practices in Concord, NC. She is 40 years old and has been practicing for 13 years. Dr. Sarah Koch, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center.

Biography: Dr. Andrew Dothard, MD is a Hematology Specialist who practices in Winston Salem, NC. He is 38 years old and has been practicing for 10 years. Dr. Andrew Dothard, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center.

Biography: Dr. Deborah Dorrell, MD is a Dermatologist who practices in Winston Salem, NC. Dr. Deborah Dorrell, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center.

Biography: When I was younger, I was attracted to medicine because it combined my love for science and learning with a desire to give back to the community. Today, as a gyn oncologist, I offer the full breadth of treatment options for patients - everything from surgery to medical management, including minimally-invasive approaches for surgery. \n Having personally seen how cancer affects families during my career, I take an honest and compassionate approach when addressing the fears and concerns that come with a cancer diagnosis and the subsequent journey. \n In medical school, I became passionate about women's health and caring for women. As a resident and fellow at Duke University Medical Center, I learned what an honor and privilege it is to be in this specialty. There is always room to learn, develop new techniques and collaborate with others, all in the interest of taking the best care of patients. That's one of the main reasons I am an active member of the Society of Gynecological Oncology, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and a fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. \n Outside of the time I spend with my patients, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Steve, my daughter and son, and our dog, Noodles. I love to exercise, read, and spend time with family and friends.