Michael and Jeremy Ross
Dr. Jeremy Ross was eagerly welcomed into practice at The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders — where his father, Dr. Michael Ross, was a founding partner — the day after he completed his fellowship training at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. “It was a dream come true to work at The Center, and I did not want to wait any longer than necessary to begin serving patients,” says the younger Dr. Ross. His dad, Dr. Michael Ross, a U.S. Navy and Vietnam War veteran, also completed his fellowship training at MD Anderson. It is not often that a father and son get to work together in the same specialized field of medicine.
FW: What do you think about your son’s joining CCBD, the practice you founded 26 years ago?
MR: My wife and I have a combination of joy and pride. There really isn't a word in English that encompasses both together.
FW: What do you think about the future of The Center and the next era of oncology care?
MR: The old timers sometimes sit around and marvel at the amazing changes we've seen — control of nausea, the start of immune therapies, and even the cures of some cancers. It is my expectation that The Center and its physicians will always be at the forefront of medical advances and always dedicated to advocating for what is best for the patient.
FW: How do you think building a practice will be different for Dr. Jeremy Ross than it was for you?
MR: Doctors now practice in a more structured, guideline-driven environment. But the art remains in oncology in that doctors must have a sixth sense to individualize treatment, even if it is not in accord with some standard guideline.
FW: How much did your father's profession influence your decision to practice medicine — and specifically oncology?
JR: Many people do not believe me when I tell them it had little influence. Oncology was always a subject of conversation in our home, and I watched my father experience both the wonderful and difficult aspects of this profession. Ultimately, oncology seemed to be the specialty that best fit my gifts and skill set.
FW: What elements of your father's practice are most important for you to emulate?
JR: His integrity and compassion, to the extent that they can be emulated. He is and has always been a doctor’s doctor, and I have very big shoes to fill at The Center. The most important facet of his practice has always been his unwavering commitment to putting the needs of the patient first, and it is my mission to continue his legacy in this way.
FW: What is one of your favorite memories growing up?
JR: I cherish the memories of making hospital rounds with my father when I was a child. I would wait for him in the physician lounge and was so proud to be recognized as his son by all the doctors and nurses who knew, respected, and loved him.
FW: What do you enjoy doing together during your spare time?
JR: Several years ago, we spent a few days in the wilderness of West Texas and enjoyed some memorable hikes in the Guadalupe Mountains. It would be wonderful to take another trip together soon, although working together in the same practice will be an adventure.
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