In this episode of The CARTI Hopecast, host Adam Head sits down with Dr. Paul Abney — clinical psychologist, educator, and former professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences — whose life took an unexpected turn when he transitioned from teaching future physicians to becoming a patient himself.

For decades, Paul trained medical students to understand that diagnosis is not merely clinical data, but a truth discovered through dialogue. He emphasized empathy as a diagnostic tool and communication as a form of therapy. Then, within a short span of time, he was diagnosed with advanced glaucoma, congestive heart disease requiring valve replacement, and aggressive prostate cancer.

In this reflective conversation, Paul shares what it feels like to sit in the exam room instead of standing at the lectern. He speaks candidly about vulnerability, the emotional weight of diagnosis, and the critical importance of physician presence. Drawing from both his academic expertise and personal experience, Paul offers a rare dual perspective on what it means to give and receive care.

Takeaways:

1. Engaging patients in communication allows them to contribute significantly to their own diagnosis.
2. The concept of diagnosis encompasses not only medical knowledge but also social aspects of healthcare.
3. Hope plays a crucial role in patient resilience and coping with terminal diagnoses.
4. Empathy in the doctor-patient relationship serves as one of the most effective diagnostic tools.
5. The experience of being a patient offers unique insights into the importance of human connection in healthcare.
6. Maintaining hope can profoundly impact a patient's emotional well-being during their treatment journey.

Founded in 1976, CARTI delivers leading-edge cancer care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. Our mission is to make trusted cancer care accessible for every patient we serve through compassion, innovation, and purpose.

The CARTI Hopecast shares authentic, meaningful stories that focus on human experiences. Every day, we see patients and families navigating unimaginable hardships, sometimes feeling alone in their journey. Through The Hopecast, listeners hear stories of resilience and transformation, fostering a sense of connection and hope.