Christine Shiang M.D., Ph.D., hematologist and breast medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at
Texas Oncology–The Woodlands. Dr. Shiang reflects on her most memorable year to-date and favorite activities outside of work.
1. What has been a defining moment in your medical career thus far?
There have been so many memorable moments but the defining theme is gratitude. I’m deeply grateful to be a part of every patient's journey. I’m also grateful for the medical breakthroughs that continue to revolutionize breast cancer care and the push to efficiently, safely, and more affordably provide advanced care within the communities where our patients live. My family and I chose to join Texas Oncology because the practice embraces these ideas of gratitude and accessibility of cancer care in the community.
2. If you could tell prospective patients one thing, what would it be?
I’d tell my future patients that we have a plan, but their time, opinion, and voice matter the most in treating their breast cancer. I’d also tell my patients that my main goal is to use all my medical training and expertise to help move us towards the best possible care. I’d like to take a moment and explain why dedicated breast cancer care is so important. All families are affected by cancer in some way and mine is no different. Cancer is not a single disease. It’s a term that describes a collection of over 400 different diseases. Cancer incidence in younger individuals below the age of 50 is on the rise, including breast cancer. It’s important that breast cancer care is comprehensive, up-to-date, and laser focused on improving long-term outcomes for patients.
3. What would you like your legacy as a physician to be?
Everyone has the potential to leave a legacy. I believe legacy means that you’ve changed something long after you’ve left. I’d like to leave behind a trail of family, friends, and patients who’ve found purpose and peace.
4. If you were stranded on a deserted island, what is one thing you could not live without?
I love this question and I'm resisting the urge to answer, “fresh water.” I couldn’t live without my razor tooth saw. I could gather firewood, ward off predators, and build a small enclosure or maybe even a raft so I could reunite with my family.
5. What is your most memorable year to-date and why?
My most memorable year was the year I met my husband. I’m incredibly fortunate to find someone who can whip up personalized omelets for the family, use a tool in at least three different ways beyond its original design, and support me in every way.
6. Outside of work, what do you enjoy spending your time doing?
Outside of work, I really enjoy activities that test my brain and muscles at the same time such as snowboarding, running, and golf. You can do all these activities with other people while testing your own strength and internal resilience.
7. Where is somewhere you've always wanted to travel to?
I’ve always wanted to visit Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River. I love visiting and learning about different natural structures, cultures, and histories. I love feeling humbled by the power of nature and time.