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Seeking Second Opinions: A Lifeline for Cancer Patients

Karmanos Cancer Institute emphasizes the life-changing power of second opinions

A cancer diagnosis can be a bewildering ordeal, but seeking a second opinion might just be the beacon of hope patients need. Dr. Jeffrey Zonder, M.D., a hematology oncologist at Karmanos Cancer Institute, stressed on “Live In The D” that getting a second opinion is “standard of care.”

Robert Brooks, a six-year cancer survivor who also appeared on the show, shared his journey. “I thought from just that alone, I really felt like Karmanos cared,” Brooks recounted, highlighting how a second opinion revolutionized his treatment plan and quality of life.

The Karmanos Cancer Institute, one of only two NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in Michigan, offers a robust multidisciplinary approach, ensuring patients receive not just a second, but a consensus opinion from multiple experts. As Dr. Zonder noted, “You don’t just get a second opinion, you get a second, third, fourth, fifth opinion.”

For those grappling with a cancer diagnosis, Brooks advises, “Talk to others who have already entered a journey or are going through a journey because they can be very helpful in understanding what to expect.”

For more information on obtaining a second opinion, visit Karmanos Cancer Institute’s website: Karmanos.org/secondopinion or contact their patient services.

To watch the segment, click the video above.


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