From Both Sides of the Curtain: Lessons and Reflections from an Oncologist's Personal Breast Cancer Journey

Both Sides of the Curtain is a deeply personal and professionally insightful journey through breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Catherine Sue Hwang, a seasoned breast radiation oncologist, takes people through her unexpected transition from doctor to patient when she is diagnosed with breast cancer. With raw honesty, she recounts receiving treatment while simultaneously continuing to treat her own breast cancer patients. This parallel journey offers people an unprecedented look at cancer care from both sides of the medical curtain.

Through her story, Dr. Hwang addresses the fears, uncertainties, and physical challenges of cancer treatment with the empathy of someone who’s been there and the expertise of a medical professional. She doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, tackling everything from hair loss and menopause to the fear of recurrence and the struggle to find a “new normal” after treatment. More than just a memoir, this insightful resource serves as a guide for patients, a wake—up call for healthcare providers, and an inspiration for anyone facing adversity.

Dr. Hwang’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of vulnerability while offering practical advice for navigating the complex world of cancer care.

With empathy and a touch of humor, Dr. Hwang navigates the emotional rollercoaster of facing the very disease she’s spent her career treating.