5 takeaways from the Health Summit (hosted by The Week)

I recently had the honor of attending a powerful session, at a Health Summit, hosted by The Week, led by our own Jame Abraham, M.D. FACP a renowned oncologist from Cleveland Clinic. This gathering left us all in awe of Lisa Ray, a courageous woman, an actor, an enterpreneur and a wellness enthusiast, whose resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of cancer offered profound insights and hope.

Here are my 5 takeaways from the session, valuable lessons not only for those in healthcare but for anyone navigating life’s challenges:

1) Doctors, particularly oncologists, lead with Kindness and Empathy: For doctors, each patient interaction may be one of many. However, for patients, it’s their one precious life on the line. Dr. Abraham reminded us that kindness and empathy are foundational in patient care, enabling healing and trust during one of the most vulnerable times in a person’s life.

2) Be Inquisitive and Tenacious: Lisa’s story highlighted the power of curiosity and persistence. “Don’t take no for an answer,” she shared. Her message was clear: think outside the box, seek second opinions, and explore all possible avenues. The drive to push boundaries can lead to new discoveries and pathways to healing.

3) Cultivate a Positive Mindset for Healthy Living and Longevity: The session reinforced the remarkable link between mind and body. Lisa’s strong inner voice and positive outlook became her greatest allies, helping her persevere. This mindset serves as a reminder of the resilience within us all—when our inner voice stays strong, so does our determination to live fully.

4) Chronicle Your Life: Reflecting on her journey, Lisa found value in documenting her experiences. Chronicling life’s moments, big and small, enables us to look back, learn, and appreciate our growth. This practice of reflection can offer clarity and strength when we need it most.

5) Frame Your Perspective: Lisa’s message was one of perspective: life has both good and bad, and it’s up to us how we choose to frame and reframe our experiences. Focusing on hope and forward momentum can make all the difference in finding peace and purpose, no matter the obstacles.

Lisa’s courage and Dr. Abraham’s compassionate care remind us of the incredible strength of the human spirit.