From Molecules to Medicine: How Dr. James Thomas is Changing GI Cancer Care
- Ella S
- Aug 10
- 3 min read
What do 70+ publications, cancer breakthroughs & molecular chemistry have in common? Dr. James Thomas!
Intro
When I first sat down with Dr. James P. Thomas, I knew I was talking to someone whose career stretched far beyond the lab and clinic. A nationally recognized oncologist, researcher and clinical trials leader at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Dr. Thomas has spent decades at the forefront of GI cancer breakthroughs.
But what makes his story so compelling isn’t just the 70+ publications or the national leadership roles; it’s how seamlessly he moves between the molecular and the human. One minute, he’s explaining the role of reactive oxygen species in cancer development; the next, he’s talking about the importance of empathy in the patient’s journey.
The Molecule That Started It All
For Dr. Thomas, it began with a fascination for reactive oxygen species (ROS): tiny, unstable molecules that can damage cells but also be leveraged in cancer treatment.
“It became apparent as time went on that it’s a very important biological stress,” he told me. “It affects cancer, heart disease and so much more.”
This early interest set the stage for his career in targeted therapies, where precision medicine mixes with personalized care.
Targeted Therapies & Tough Cancers
In colon cancer, treatments like EGFR inhibitors have brought meaningful progress. Pancreatic cancer, he disclosed, remains “the toughest cancer there is,” which’s often found too late.
Still, Dr. Thomas’s optimism is unwavering. Incremental advances are being made, and his team continues to move both immune-based and targeted strategies forward.
Teamwork on the Tumor Board
One of his favorite parts of the job? Tumor boards: multidisciplinary meetings where surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and other specialists craft the best plan for each patient.
At MCW, they don’t just have one board for GI cancers; they have separate boards for pancreas, colorectal, liver, neuroendocrine and esophageal/gastric cancers. It’s collaboration at its most dynamic, and a critical training ground for future physicians.
Breaking Myths for Future Doctors
When I asked what message he’d share with high school students intimidated by medicine, his answer was simple: “Shoot high.” Dr. Thomas came from a small rural high school with no local role models in medicine.
“My parents didn’t think I could be a doctor,” he recalls. “But if you work hard, it’s there for you.”
He’s quick to point out that there are many careers in medicine beyond being a physician, from nursing to clinical trial coordination, each vital to patient care.
Optimism with Honesty
Cancer care, he says, is about balancing realism with hope.
“Patients need to know the seriousness of the illness, but they also want to know you’re willing to try things.”
That blend of directness and optimism has earned him a reputation as not just a physician, but a partner in the journey.
Why the Work Still Inspires Him
For Dr. Thomas, one of the most exciting parts of oncology is how quickly research can translate into real-world treatment.
“To walk into a room and tell a patient that we now have multiple ways to help them, that’s incredibly rewarding.”
Riding for a Cure
This year, Dr. Thomas is especially looking forward to Ride Audaxity, a community cycling event raising funds for cancer breakthroughs at MCW.
“It’s not just about the research,” he says. “It’s about coming together, patients, families, researchers, all on the same mission to fight cancer.”
Join the Ride!
Audaxity 2025 is August 17, and 100% of proceeds go toward cancer research at MCW. Whether you donate, volunteer or bring your bike, you’ll be part of something bigger. Learn more & register here: https://audaxity.org
Watch my full interview with Dr. Thomas on YouTube here and follow @WhiteCoatWonders1 on Instagram here for behind-the-scenes content and more inspiring physician stories!
Until next time, thanks for reading, & keep learning ;)
– Elioenai!
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