Crystal S. Denlinger, MD

I have wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember. My decision to become an oncologist came during my teenage years, when my family became one of the many families dealing with cancer. During medical school and residency, I was drawn to the oncology patients as each person's fight against their cancer was unique, uplifting, and inspiring.

I have known many people who had been treated at Fox Chase, even before I joined the staff. All have been quick to share their positive experiences with me, including my family's own experience. That is part of the reason I chose to do my fellowship here. After completing my fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center in 2007, I knew this was where I wanted to practice. The relationships between physician and patient that develop during the treatment of cancer are very special, and as a medical oncologist, I am privileged to be a part of these wonderful therapeutic relationships.

While the thought of curing cancer is a lofty goal, I knew my best opportunity to become involved in cutting-edge research would lie at Fox Chase. The unique environment allows everyone to work toward a common goal without competing for individual recognition. It is a very supportive, collegial hospital in which to work. At Fox Chase, I have the ability to be involved in large clinical trials that often change the standard of care. With our amazing pool of resources, we help develop Phase I trials that have the potential to identify the next promising drug on the horizon.

Community outreach and survivorship are other interests of mine. As a physician, it's important to me to help educate the local community about cancer prevention, early detection, screening tools, coping with cancer and the latest treatment methods. For those patients completing their cancer treatment, the integration of their cancer follow-up into their health care plan is important. Ensuring that patients are educated about necessary follow-up and screening for all health-related issues is key to surviving a cancer diagnosis.

People often ask me what I do for a living. They are always surprised to hear how much I love my job. I am intimately involved in my patients' lives and find it extremely satisfying to find a cure for many patients. For my patients with metastatic disease, which is close to my heart, I am able to have a positive impact as well. Whether this means improving their quality of life or extending their number of years on this earth, it is most gratifying to be able to help my patients.