Dr. Catherine Chodkiewicz

Philosophy of care | Having been on the receiving end of multiple cancer diagnoses within my own family as I grew up, I strongly believe my patients and their families have the right to an honest discussion about their disease process. I personally make every effort to explain things in a simple yet detailed way, so patients understand their disease, goals of care and treatment plan. I want to be a trusted partner in helping them deal with their diagnosis, and make every effort to treat each patient as I would a family member. | Why I entered medicine | My family suffers from a genetic syndrome that predisposes them to developing cancer. Having grown up watching and helping most of the people I love deal with cancer, I decided to study medicine and do what I could to improve treatment and help others live their best possible lives with this disease. After medical school, I did basic science research at Johns Hopkins University, followed by residency and fellowship training at the Cleveland Clinic and the University of Pittsburgh, all to become the best oncologist I could be. | Community involvement | I am involved in organizations and charities that improve the lives and treatment of cancer patients. I also help provide free specialized remote care and expert opinion to international patients in collaboration with their local health care providers. I enjoy community events to educate people on targeted therapies and their success in making cancer a chronic disease. I also enjoy giving talks on how oncology is evolving and how cancer today often means patients living full lives while being treated for their disease. | Personal interests | Outside of work, I love to spend time with my family and our two dogs. Together we enjoy cooking, traveling, trying new cuisines and being outdoors. I also enjoy hunting and fishing. Dr. Ali is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Posterior Fossa Tumor. His top areas of expertise are Familial Colorectal Cancer, Anal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, and Lynch Syndrome.

Philosophy of care | In my area we’re dealing with people who are frightened. I’m trying to help patients deal with all of the information they’ve been hearing, and I’m trying to dispel all of the myths. It’s a matter of education and mutual trust. I’m there to do whatever I can do for them, even if it’s just a matter of easing their pain. | Also, I am a member of the thoracic cancer multidisciplinary consultation team. Together we review your diagnostic information and give you a written opinion reflecting the scope of your condition and recommendations for your best course of care. | Why I entered medicine | Medicine was not my first choice. I wanted to be first oboe in the New York Philharmonic. I have a love of biochemistry and science, and I like people. One day, I just decided I wanted to be a doctor. I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world. | Community involvement | I’m part of the National Cancer Institute’s community cancer program. Our goal is to be able to give the same care and treatment to everyone, whether they have health insurance or not. | Personal interests | I still play the oboe and will always have a love of music. I’m an avid cyclist, and I enjoy skiing. Dr. Friedman is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Posterior Fossa Tumor. His top areas of expertise are Lung Cancer, Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Philosophy of care | Effective medical care begins with a deep understanding of each patient’s circumstances and needs. The physician-patient relationship is foundational and must be a two-way dialogue built on trust and respect. I prioritize learning what truly matters to you and your family. I offer treatment recommendations and options that align with your values, preferences and goals. While my clinical focus is on blood disorders and blood cancers, listening carefully and tailoring care to patients is the heart of everything I do. I provide guidance and recommendations, but the decisions ultimately belong to you, the patient. I strongly believe in a team-based approach, where collaboration and communication yield the best outcomes. | Why I entered medicine | When I started college, medicine was the farthest thing from my mind; I was an economics major and took the MCAT on a whim. To my surprise, I scored far better than expected for someone without a science background, and that led me to medical school. Looking back, I can’t imagine doing anything else. Medicine – and caring for patients – has become my true passion. My path into the field was unconventional but led me exactly where I was meant to be. Practicing hematology and oncology isn’t just a career for me – it’s the only thing I can see myself doing. | Community involvement | As a part of cancer center leadership, I participate in local events and charities for patients with cancer and blood diseases, including speaking to the leukemia/lymphoma society. I am particularly fond of events centered around running for cancer charities. | Personal interests | Running is a personal passion of mine – second only to medicine and my family. Dr. Lash is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Posterior Fossa Tumor. His top areas of expertise are Lung Cancer, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Large-Cell Immunoblastic Lymphoma, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.