Why I Chose Oncology: Dr. Robert Donegan

Dr. Robert Donegan’s interest in medical oncology began with kitchen table conversations growing up. His mother was one of the early oncology nurses at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the 1970s. And his older sister Sarah became an oncology research pharmacist. One might say it is in his genes.

“Despite this, when I graduated medical school, my eyes were wide-open, and I wasn’t certain which path I would take. But when I got deep into my residency, it became obvious that Medical Oncology was my true calling. The relationships I built with patients who were truly in need, resonated deeply with me. I found it very fulfilling to help them through some very difficult times. To this day, making that strong connection is the most valuable part of what I do. It begins with that.

“Another major influence is that the science of oncology is intellectually fascinating and constantly changing. If you look at many of the great changes that have occurred in medicine during my career, one of the most exciting advancing fronts has been what is happening in cancer care – especially as we have begun to unmask the mysteries surrounding the genetics of tumors and the molecular changes that drive cancer growth.

"That deep, humanistic connection with souls who are in need, married with the intellectual challenges rooted in the ever-changing science, is what drew me to become an oncologist. And every day in clinic I am reminded how fortunate I am to have been given the privilege to serve my patients in this way.”