Sharon T. Wilks, M.D., FACP

Education

• Fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology
  Lackland AFB, San Antonio, TX
• Medical Doctorate
  Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD

Accolades & Memberships

• Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster
• American Cancer Society Volunteer of the Year, San Antonio Metro Unit (2003)
• American Society of Hematology
• American Society of Oncology
• Chi Eta Phi Sorority Humanitarian Award, San Antonio Chapter
• KLRN Women’s Health Award (2000)
• San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame Inductee (2004)
• Texas Monthly “Texas Super Doctor” (2010 – 2020)

Research Interest

Dr. Wilks' research interest is predominantly related to the early phase discovery of drug development in all malignancies, including breast cancer, as well as phase I and phase II clinical trials. Throughout her career, Dr. Wilks has played a key role in studies with the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP), the SWOG Cancer Research Network (formerly the Southwest Oncology Group), and The US Oncology Network clinical trials.

Medical Practice

• Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX (2012 – 2013)
• Director of Research, Cancer Care Centers of South Texas (2007 – 2018)
• Breast Cancer Committee Member, The US Oncology Network (2007 – present)
• Speaker for Genentech BioOncology (2008 – 2016)
• Speaker for Genomic Health (2008 – 2012)
• Speaker for Abraxis (2009 – 2012)
• Speaker for Eisai (2011 – 2013)
• Speaker for Novartis (2012 – 2013)
• Marketing Committee Director, Cancer Care Centers of South Texas (2013 – 2017)
• Member of the Breast Center Program Leadership Committee (2012 – present)
• Education Committee Chairperson, Baptist Breast Center (2013 – 2014)
• Associate Chair for the Breast Cancer Research Committee US Oncology (2016 – present)

Community Service

• Coordinator of two annual Breast Cancer Awareness Day programs at Lackland AFB (1996 – 1997)
• Regular speaker for the American Cancer Society
• Advisory Board member of the local chapter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation (1998)
• Active speaker in the community for current issues in breast cancer prevention, detection, and treatment
• Board of Directors Member, Texas WINGS
• Coordinated efforts with Alamo Breast Cancer Foundation, San Antonio Chapter of Susan G. Komen Foundation, and local chapter of the American Cancer Society
• Coordinated efforts of American Breast Cancer Foundation, American Cancer Society, and Susan G. Komen local San Antonio Chapter
• Chairperson, the Collaborative Breast Cancer Group (2004)
• Advisory Board Member, Slam Dunk for Life (2006 – 2008)

Other Information

In her free time, Dr. Wilks enjoys spending time with her children and husband, and loves to travel, exercise, and read.

Why a patient should choose treatment at your practice?

Individuals who present to our local oncology facility will get state-of-the-art application of treatment and support that are mandated/recommended by national guidelines. This type of care is ensured by having established pathways in place that follow federal and governmental guidelines in established measures for cancer care. Individuals who seek care at our facility will get treatment closer to home that is comparable to treatment at centers of excellence including clinical research opportunities, laboratory analysis and genomic molecular testing as well as radiation and imaging services. Patient's enjoy high level of cancer care with the personal touch delivered in their own neighborhood.

Why did you become a doctor?

I chose medicine because I had been affected by my mothers’ struggle to become a healthcare professional. I also watched my mom deal with numerous medical problems before her early death at age 52. I grew up at a time where it was always understood that you should use your skills and knowledge to help others in need and it appeared that medicine would provide this for me. Seeking a career in the field of oncology provided a deeper and special opportunity for me to serve and provide help to those in need when they are at the most vulnerable state.

It is rewarding when you see someone who is initially diagnosed with cancer who may be very symptomatic who with life-saving treatments, experience recovery and restoration of their health. The best gift ever for me is when I see an individual survive a life threating cancer and then live and have the opportunity to experience milestones in their own lives and in the children and grandchildren and great grandchildren's lives.

What is your personal philosophy around patient care?

My chief philosophy for who those who seek cancer care is for them to receive state-of-the-art treatment with support that is genuine, and heart felt. Certainly, one can apply new applications and discoveries for treatment but I think it goes to a deeper level and is much more impactful if a person receives that high standard of care from someone who really truly cares and has a heartfelt interest in their patients outcome and survival.