The Power of Positivity—For Caregivers & Their Patients

While others were ringing in the new year, George Collins was having a brain tumor removed. The pathology report confirmed it was a glioblastoma—a diagnosis that led him to Lily Pham, MD, a neuro-oncologist at the University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, and nurse coordinator, Sarah Wessling, BSN, RN.

Pictured to the right: Sarah Wessling with George and Catherine.

George and his wife, Catherine, connected first with Dr. Pham’s energy and then with her intelligence and compassion. The joyfulness she exhibited both surprised them and put them at ease. “She made us feel very positive,” Catherine said.

Their appreciation for her as a doctor and a person grew as she recounted George’s medical history prior to and immediately following his diagnosis during their initial meeting with her. They found comfort in the fact that she was so “on top of things” without ever having met or spoken with them. “I had never experienced that from any other physician,” George shared. “It felt very personal.”

Dr. Pham shared MRI images and visually presented what the different scenarios would like look like for the different treatment options. Her presentation style covered the many different ways people absorb information. Her thoroughness and attentiveness to detail further increased their comfort levels. “That first interview made us feel like we could finally breathe,” Catherine said.

Dr. Pham’s positive personality has made a huge difference in how the Collins feel about the process and George’s outcome. “Positivity is probably one of the most important assets besides being smart and knowing what you're doing for dealing with a diagnosis like this,” Catherine said.

The relationship between nurse coordinator Sarah and Dr. Pham further strengthens the Collins’ confidence in George’s treatment. Their cohesiveness as a team provides for a seamless experience. You’d never know they haven’t worked together for very long, George said. “It’s almost like they can read each other’s minds.” The Dynamic Duo, as Catherine referred to them, have only worked together since November; but in that short time, they have developed a professional relationship that elevates patient care.

The duo doesn’t just check boxes; it’s a team effort. “They truly care,” Catherine exclaimed. “We have our family members and we have ‘Team Pham’ supporting us.” In addition, the Collins treasure their responsiveness and attentiveness to messages. “No symptom, nothing that you feel is too little,” George said. “They always want to know what’s going on.”

Their dedication and commitment extend to the entire Collins family. George and Catherine are amazed at how the team has connected with their five adult children. “Dr. Pham remembers all of their names,” Catherine said. She makes you feel like you are important—like your kids are important.”

Most importantly, Dr. Pham reminds them to be grateful and to continue to live their lives as they navigate George’s cancer journey. “This isn't just about getting treatments,” Catherine said. “We have six grandchildren and one due in July. Life’s grand whatever amount of time you have left.”

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