ORLANDO, Fla., — As a radiation oncologist, Sue Hwang, MD, had spent 15 years guiding women through their treatment for breast cancer, starting from the moment they learned the results of their biopsy.
“There’s something wrong with my mammogram.” I could barely get out the words.
“What do you mean?” Her voice sharpened.
“They found five tumors.” The sob caught in my throat. “And a lymph node.”
Within hours, she went from being Dr. Hwang, a confident and booming radiation oncologist, to Sue, a terrified patient.
In From Both Sides of the Curtain: Lessons and Reflections from an Oncologist’s Breast Cancer Journey, Dr. Hwang reveals the complex, frequently changing emotional landscape that every cancer patient faces—from going through the experience herself. In an interview, Dr. Hwang can reveal additional warning signs beyond discovering a mass that women should be aware of, such as:
- Breast asymmetry
- Dimpling of the breast
- Nipple retraction and discharge
- Skin thickening or an orange texture in the skin
After diagnosis, Dr. Hwang recommends that patients ask their care team these questions:
- What is my stage and type of cancer? What is my prognosis?
- Do I need genetic and genomic testing? Do I need body imaging?
- Who are the other doctors taking care of me? Do you work as a team? Is there a nurse navigator?
- What can I do now to strengthen my body for treatment?
From Both Sides of the Curtain: Lessons and Reflections from an Oncologist’s Breast Cancer Journey
Publisher: Morgan James Publishing
Release Date: January 20, 2026
ISBN-13: 978-1636987910
Available from https://www.amazon.com/Both-Sides-Curtain-Reflections-Oncologists/dp/1636987915
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