Christopher George, MD, Competes in Dancing With Chicago Celebrities
On Friday, March 8, Christopher George, MD, will hit the dance floor to raise funds for transformational breast cancer research and care at Northwestern Medicine and Lurie Cancer Center. Read how he’s preparing for “Dancing with Chicago Celebrities” and support his efforts as a “Corporate Superstar”:
My dear friends –
The treatment of cancer has changed dramatically since I started my medical oncology practice in 2002; the progress in breast cancer treatment has been dramatic and it continues today. Through the use of targeted treatments, immunotherapy, and more effective surgical techniques, we are curing more patients of this disease than ever before. The fatality rate from breast cancer has seen a sustained decrease since the 90s, with no signs of leveling off. Many factors have contributed to this success story, but the impact of patient advocates and grass-roots philanthropy can’t be understated.
It is an honor for me to support this remarkable organization and very worthy cause. I am so proud to be part of an effort that aims to help fund exciting new treatments and ensure universal access to innovative and advanced cancer therapy, regardless of a patient's location, social support, or financial means.
Prior to embarking on this project, my dancing skills had been described as "unwatchable" and even a "tragic hot mess". While these words are hurtful and slightly mean-spirited, they're sadly not wrong. But negative feedback can be powerful motivation, and I've doubled down on self-improvement. I've immersed myself in the world of dance, watching and re-watching that “Flashdance” video ("she's a maniac...") and many, many Elvis movies. With the patience and guidance of my dance instructor, I think we've arrived at a unique aesthetic — a sort of Wiggles-meets-Gangnam-style fusion — that I believe will enchant audiences. Or at the very least, upgrade comments from "train-wreck" to something approaching "unpleasant, but tolerable."
In all seriousness, cancer is a disease that touches all of us, and research funding makes a huge a difference. The progress we've witnessed in cancer treatment over the course of my career has been nothing short of astounding, and I strongly believe that this upward trajectory will continue. I extend my deepest gratitude to all of you and thank you for your support!
Christopher George, MD
Northwestern Medicine
Medical Director Cancer Program, West and Northwest Regions
Member, Robert H Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University