Reflecting on Learning, Family, and the Journey of Healthcare

As a practitioner with 15 years of experience—and alongside my colleagues, who collectively share over 55 years in the field—I’m constantly reminded of how much there is still to learn in the world of health, disease, and preventative care. It’s both humbling and inspiring to realize that even with all we’ve achieved and discovered, there remains a vast ocean of knowledge yet to explore. This journey of learning has become even more personal to me in recent months, as my family and I navigate my father’s battle with cancer.

The Gratitude of Growth and Collaboration

In 2024, I had the privilege of meeting Jill Reese, PA-C, first as a patient and now as a trusted integrative colleague. Jill has profoundly deepened my understanding of the conventional applications of medicine, helping me appreciate the critical role of medications, diagnostics, and procedures in patient care. As a practitioner, I’ve always valued tools like MRIs and detailed lab work to see beyond symptoms and understand the deeper workings of the body. With wearable technology now offering insights into sleep quality and fitness metrics like VO2 max, the possibilities for truly individualized care are expanding. In 2020 I got the privilege of being a provider to Dr. Ann Stroh. At the time I told her it was an honor to take care of her and telling her I desire to NEVER be a patients of hers. Never did I think I would need her, and want her oversight in the care of my Dad.

Lessons Through the Lens of Family

Reflecting on my parents’ health challenges has profoundly shaped my perspective. Growing up in Sioux City, Iowa, I was blessed with two incredibly supportive, albeit very different, parents. My mom was the quintessential cheerleader, loud and lively, always cheering for our team whether I was excelling or just getting through. My dad, in contrast, was a reserved and intimidating presence—think Clint Eastwood vibes with a pack of Unfiltered Camels, and an impressive exhale through his nose. Despite their differences, they both instilled values that shaped me and I am forever grateful.

In recent years, my parents’ health challenges—knee replacements, fractures, heart disease, COPD, and now cancer—have brought home the realities of aging and the complexities of care. My dad’s aggressive cancer diagnosis has been a whirlwind, with a tumor growing from the size of a marble (Sept 18th) to a softball (Nov 15th) in a short time. The experience has been a mix of gratitude, and relentless determination to get him the care he needs and as fast as possible. 

Balancing Conventional and Integrative Approaches

Through this journey, I’ve gained a greater appreciation for the balance between conventional and integrative medicine. For my dad, traditional interventions like radiation and potential chemotherapy are life-saving necessities. At the same time, integrative strategies, such as ketone esters, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), and THC:CBD tinctures, have played a critical role in managing his pain and overall well-being. This dual approach has reaffirmed my belief that treating disease—especially complex conditions like cancer—requires a holistic view that considers the unique metabolic, psychological, and physical aspects of each patient. Also, because I know many people are curious... No, he did NOT get the covid19 shot. ;) 

Individualized Care: A Guiding Principle

One of the most striking lessons from my dad’s journey is the importance of individualized care. I’ve seen firsthand how different opinions can lead to drastically different treatment plans, and it’s clear that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Each patient’s circumstances, from their age and health status to their ability to adapt to lifestyle changes, must guide the plan. For my dad, allowing him to continue smoking—despite its health implications—feels more compassionate than forcing a change that might increase his anxiety during an already stressful time.

Gratitude in the Midst of Challenges

Despite the challenges, I’m profoundly thankful. Thankful for the advancements in cancer care, for the integrative tools that support healing, and for the incredible people who have come into our lives at just the right moments. My dad’s experience has strengthened my resolve to continue learning, growing, and advocating for patient-centered care.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Patients

To our clinic’s patients: thank you for your understanding and patience during this time. Stepping back from the office to focus on my family has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make, but it was necessary for my mental health and my dad’s care. I deeply value the trust you place in us and remain committed to offering the best care possible as I return to practice with fresh insights and renewed purpose.

Looking Ahead

This season of life has been humbling but transformative. I look forward to continuing to share my dad’s story and the lessons it’s teaching me—about health, resilience, and the unyielding power of learning. Together, with you as our partners in care, we will navigate the complexities of health with compassion and determination. I am thankful and grateful for the degree of coordination of care at the June E Nylen Cancer Center in Sioux City, and Dr. McGarry at the University of Nebraska. 

Thank you for being part of this journey with me.