Ashleigh Porter, M.D., hematologist and medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology–Cedar Park and Leander. Dr. Porter explains how she prioritizes patient relationships and advocacy, and why 2020 turned out to be one of her best years to date.
What led you to pursue a career in cancer care?
My father is a retired hematologist and medical oncologist who used to take me with him on rounds at the hospital some weekends. You could say becoming a cancer doctor has always been “in my blood.” Oncology is also an incredibly exciting field with breakthroughs happening every day, and I feel very lucky that I get to be a part of that.
What has been a defining moment in your medical career?
Graduating from fellowship after completing 10 years of post-graduate training was a huge milestone that showed all my hard work had paid off.
If you could tell prospective patients one thing, what would it be?
I put a lot of value in getting to know my patients well and treating them like family. I promise to be the number one advocate for anyone I am caring for—we are a team!
What are you regularly tuning into right now (e.g., podcast, show, music, book, etc.)?
I just finished season two of White Lotus, and I loved it!
What is your most memorable year to-date and why?
2020 was a memorable year for many reasons. I was working to complete my fellowship training at The University of California Los Angeles during the height of COVID-19. My husband and I were supposed to have our wedding in 2020, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic. We decided to elope and got married on the beach instead. It turned out to be amazing!
Do you have any hidden talents? If so, what are they?
I grew up in Michigan playing competitive ice hockey and am a five-time state champion.
What are you looking forward to exploring in Texas?
I am a big foodie, so I’m really looking forward to exploring the Austin food scene. I’m also looking forward to exploring the outdoors with my husband and our two dogs; we have a new Great Dane puppy and a Corgi.