Photo by Michael Williams
Dr. Marnee Spierer
As the chief of staff and chief of Radiation Oncology at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Dr. Spierer knows how earth-rattling a cancer diagnosis can be for a patient. That is why it is her mission to provide hope just when things may seem hopeless.
Why were you drawn to oncology?
One of my favorite monologues from literature is Atticus Finch’s closing remarks in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” He calls the court of law the great equalizer—how in a court of law, all men are created equal. Poor versus rich. Black versus white. Smart versus “stupid.” That is exactly how I see cancer/oncology. Cancer does not care how much money you have or don’t have. Your skin color. Your degree. Your political party. Cancer is also the great equalizer. And everyone deserves the best possible chance at beating it. I knew I wanted to commit my professional life to this disease and its treatment.
What is the most exciting advancement in your field currently?
Radiation technology changes rapidly. Through a variety of techniques, we are now able to give high doses of radiation therapy to cancerous tumors while still protecting normal, healthy organs. This allows us to give higher doses, killing more tumors. And we can now do this at the same time patients are receiving systemic therapy such as immunotherapy or chemotherapy.
What is the most rewarding part of your career?
I absolutely love the bond I am able to create with my patients. I know how scared and overwhelmed people are when they learn they have a diagnosis of cancer. The not knowing is terrifying. When I can help patients understand their diagnoses, their options—when I can give them clarity and hope—that’s the most rewarding thing I believe I can do.
What influence do you hope to have on the Valley?
Being diagnosed with cancer is incredibly frightening and humbling. Being armed with information about treatment options, outcomes, logistics of treatment—this all helps ease the fear. My hope is that more and more patients become empowered with knowledge of how best to approach their cancer. I am proud to be among the very talented physicians advancing treatment options for patients diagnosed with cancer so that we can conquer this disease one patient at a time.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
I was raised in a family committed to instilling in us the value of volunteering and community service. My husband and I are raising our two children in the same vein. We volunteer throughout the Valley (cleaning homes of single moms with cancer, working in a food bank, spending time with kids in shelters), are active members of Temple Solel and are philanthropic with both local and national charities including Arizona Assistance in Healthcare, Valley of the Sun JCC, Childhelp and Jewish Federation.
What are some of your free-time passions?
I am currently going to school for my MBA. As such, my free time is a bit few and far between! However, I love spending time with my family—whether dinners, game nights or just hanging at home watching a movie.
