Ob/Gyn Dispatches During COVID-19: Jason Wright, MD

Each day during the COVID-19 pandemic, we'll share an update from a member of our team in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Today's note is from Jason D. Wright, MD, Chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology. 

The spread of COVID-19 has led to uncertainty and unprecedented challenges over the last several weeks. As an oncologist, I predominately care for women with gynecologic cancers. On a daily basis our patients must weigh the risks of coronavirus against the very real consequences of delaying surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and their own care.

As they face these difficult choices, I’ve been continually inspired and humbled by our patients. We’ve witnessed incredible sacrifices made by patients and their families to continue their treatments. We’ve received numerous offers from our patients to help other patients by providing counseling and guidance, emotional support, and even transportation to treatment. We’ve even received offers from patients to alter their own treatments so resources could be preserved for others in need. In spite of all the challenges our patients are facing, we’ve seen an amazing outpouring of support for our healthcare providers and staff, offers of supplies and assistance, and messages of encouragement and gratitude.

Similarly, I’ve been so proud to see how everyone in our Department has pulled together to not only take care of our patients, but also to take care of each other. A colleague recently shared with me a quotation from Albert Camus: “In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.” This challenge has truly brought out the best in our patients, providers and staff which will help us all get through these uncertain times together.  

Jason D. Wright, MD