Cancer is a common disease. Many of us will have had the experience of a close friend or family member who has been diagnosed with cancer. Such a diagnosis is associated with anxiety and concern for the future for both the person affected and their loved ones . It is this uniqueness about patients with cancer that is powerfully motivating to myself . As a clinical oncologist , I have a deep desire to make a positive change to my patients ; cure where possible and when a cure is not possible to extend and improve the quality of life remaining and provide effective palliation of symptoms.