03/16/2026
Full circle moments in medicine.
A couple weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend the Corewell Health Innovations in Cancer Care Symposium in Troy.
One of the highlights of the day was finally meeting Dr. Harry Wasvary, colorectal surgeon and faculty member at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. Dr. Wasvary was also a longtime partner of my father before he retired, so although we had never met before, we recognized each other immediately and shared a great conversation.
Dr. Wasvary gave an excellent presentation on colorectal cancer screening and prevention. The morning sessions focused on cancer prevention and early detection, and the afternoon explored innovations in cancer care including cellular therapy and artificial intelligence in oncology. The entire symposium was extremely well organized and full of valuable insights.
I’m grateful to work alongside outstanding colleagues like Dr. Wasvary, who also runs the weekly colorectal tumor board that I enjoy attending. I always learn something new from these discussions.
In our work together, surgeons perform the procedures that remove tumors and save lives, while my role in integrative oncology is to help patients prepare for surgery, recover well, and safely navigate chemotherapy and radiation using evidence-based support through:
• nutrition
• physical activity
• mind-body practices
• and natural products
Many people don’t realize that naturopathic physicians are working alongside conventional oncology teams to support patients before, during, and after treatment.
This collaborative approach helps patients pursue the best possible outcomes and the best possible quality of life.
Another reminder of how powerful it is when conventional and integrative medicine work together in service of our patients.
Grateful to be part of this community.
