Sophia Lee, M.D., hematologist and medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at
Texas Oncology–Houston Medical Center. Dr. Lee shares what excites her about joining Texas Oncology and her love for Houston’s culinary scene.
1. What do you think the future of cancer treatment will look like?
The future of cancer treatment, in my view, is deeply intertwined with personalized medicine, which has already become the gold standard. I envision a future where we continuously optimize care based on each patient’s specific cancer type and move away from the more traditional, systemic approaches. My hope is that this evolution will significantly improve survival rates while reducing the side effects associated with treatment. It’s a pivotal time to be an oncologist!
2. What excites you most about joining an organization like Texas Oncology?
During my time here, I’ve been truly inspired by the genuine care that each staff member brings to their patient interactions. The culture here fosters not only compassion for the patients, but also a deep sense of teamwork and mutual support among the staff. Additionally, the principle of collaborating and learning from the experts at Texas Oncology is incredibly exciting. The practice’s commitment to providing high-quality care and pushing the boundaries of cancer care is something I’m eager to be a part of. It’s incredibly motivating to be part of such collaborative, caring environment and I look forward to helping pioneer new ways to fight cancer within such an esteemed practice.
3. What would you like your legacy as a physician to be?
I aspire to build a legacy centered around compassion. I want to be remembered as someone who consistently demonstrated empathy, understanding, and a deep commitment to the well-being of every patient I treated.
4. What is your favorite thing to do in Houston?
Houston’s rich cultural diversity is something I deeply appreciate. My favorite thing to do is explore the city’s culinary scene, which offers a unique taste of many different cultures. Whether I’m discovering a new restaurant or revisiting a beloved spot, I find that the food in Houston reflects its vibrant and multicultural spirit.
5. What is the number one item on your bucket list you’d like to achieve this year?
This year, I want to reintroduce more music into my life. Specifically, I’d like to reconnect with my cello, which I put aside for my studies and work. I also want to immerse myself in Houston’s musical offerings by attending musicals and orchestra performances. Music has always been a passion of mine, and I’m eager to make it a prominent part of my life again.
6. How do you unwind from a stressful day?
For me, unwinding from a stressful day often involves spending quality time with friends and family. Whether it’s sharing a meal or watching a movie together, these simple yet meaningful interactions have a remarkable way of shifting my perspective and restoring my sense of balance. The comfort and support I find in my loved ones are invaluable.