The SCAR Project as seen through a doctor's eyes

[It is my great pleasure to introduce this guest post by Oncology Hematology Care physician Douglas Flora, MD. Not only has OHC been one of our most generous supporters for the SCAR Project Cincinnati Exhibit, but they also happen to be some of the most amazing caregivers, not to mention lifesavers. My co-committee members Vanessa, Shelly, and I are all patients of OHC, as are quite a few of the Pink Ribbon Girls (our beneficiary for the Cincinnati exhibit) that we've been working with to bring The SCAR Project to Cincinnati. I cannot even begin to tell you how much it means to all of us to have OHC on our team. Thank you, OHC. And thank you, Dr. Flora for letting us see The SCAR Project through a doctor's eyes.]

Why We Should Look at the Face of Cancer

Guest Post By Douglas Flora, MD

Oncology Hematology Care

Exhibits like the SCAR project make us look at the face of cancer head on. The groundbreaking images are of accomplished, intelligent women who have taken bad news in stride, moved forward and remained accomplished, intelligent women. These beautiful pictures capture women demonstrating emotions in their barest sense:  they are brave images that remind us all of how cancer affects our wives, daughters, mothers in all shapes and sizes, and sends a powerful message about the importance of advocacy, research and early detection. One of the privileges of being a Medical Oncologist is that we KNOW these women: valiant, defiant, brave. These images stir emotions, stimulate debate and discussion, and bring attention to a vital population of our sisters, wives, mothers: all fighting, surviving, flourishing in our midst. They make you want to read more, research more, screen more, care more. I lost my mother to this disease, and I support ANY project like this that stirs hearts and encourages public attention to this important disease. Women who see these images can experience a more visceral understanding of what their sisters, neighbors, friends are going through. Pink Ribbons don’t tell the whole story and hopefully the Cincinnati community will support and embrace this project, giving cancer survivors the respect they deserve. These images remind us all to pay attention to the importance of early screening and detection of cancers, especially breast. They invoke emotions that are important: hope, fear, sadness and joy, which are all part of the human condition. These brave women are photographed in their barest state, with grace and dignity and hopefully inspire those like myself who work in this field to continue to fight this important battle.

About Oncology Hematology Care

As Greater Cincinnati’s top quality, comprehensive resource for cancer and blood disorders, Oncology Hematology Care offers patients a wide range of cancer specialists, the newest treatments and technologies, and clinical trials that bring leading-edge therapies close to home. With more than 50 physicians and nurse practitioners, our group cares for patients at more than 20 locations in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.