Tools, advice, and encouragement to help patients speak up, understand their rights, and take control of their care journey.
Scalp cooling, also known as “cool caps,” is a proven method that can help chemotherapy patients reduce hair loss and preserve dignity during treatment. Yet in the U.S., this option remains largely unspoken, rarely offered, inconsistently covered, and often discovered only after treatment begins. Dr. Yvette Colón explores the science, the barriers, and why every patient deserves to know this choice exists.
When I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, I knew the science the prognosis, the treatment options, the odds. What I didn’t know was how it would feel to be met with silence instead of compassion.
In this story, I share what it’s like to face a devastating diagnosis as both a clinician and a patient and what it taught me about empathy, advocacy, and hope.
You Know It’s Bad: Finding Strength When the Doctors Don’t Give You Hope is about reclaiming your power when the system forgets your humanity. Because even when the words you need never come, you can still create your own hope.
When I was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, the appointments came fast like a conveyor belt I couldn’t step off. Between scans, bloodwork, and learning an entirely new language of medical terms, it felt impossible to keep up. In this post, I’m breaking down those confusing terms like Whipple, FOLFIRINOX, and CA 19-9 into plain language. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting someone who is, I hope this helps ease a little of the fear and confusion that come with hearing, “You have pancreatic cancer.”
Pancreatic cancer is often called a silent killer, with vague symptoms and one of the lowest survival rates of all cancers. Every November, Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month shines a light on this overlooked disease, pushing for research, equity in care, and earlier detection while honoring patients, survivors, and families.
Dr. Yvette Colón challenges the “hero survivor” myth in her Toastmasters speech, sharing a more honest, inclusive view of cancer survivorship.
A candid look at the emotional and practical lessons I had to learn quickly after hearing the words no one ever expects: “You have pancreatic cancer.”
Dr. Yvette Colón explains what health equity is, how it differs from health disparities, and why systemic racism in healthcare demands urgent change.
Speaking up in the exam room isn’t easy, especially when you’re exhausted or scared. Here’s how to advocate for yourself effectively and respectfully.
