Ralph P. Ermoian, MD

I once treated a preteen patient who was an extraordinary student. Unfortunately, she had developed a brain tumor that required a significant amount of radiation therapy. While radiation can be a very effective form of treatment, there are several potential long-term side effects to consider. Before moving forward, I had a long discussion with this patient and her family about how radiation therapy  could impact the sharpness of her thinking — and ultimately her academic ambitions. After she completed her course of treatment, her family frequently wrote to me to share how well she was doing. Year after year, they would tell me about how she was still at the top of her class and eventually how she got accepted to an outstanding college. It was so exciting to hear that she was thriving and pursuing her career goals. One of the things I enjoy most about my specialty are the close relationships I develop with patients and families as well as my professional practice partners. It’s a team effort that results in the best outcomes.

I often tell patients and families that I’m going to expect the best, both in terms of how a tumor will respond to radiation therapy and how a patient will feel while receiving this treatment. Yet, while expecting the best, I also remain vigilant about evaluating for side effects and monitoring for cancer recurrence. My goal is to provide care that’s compassionate, detail-oriented and centered on your medical needs and goals.