Leading Through Stories: The Power of Pediatric Cancer Narratives in Healthcare

In the realm of pediatric oncology, there is an unspoken narrative, one that is rich with the experiences and voices of its youngest fighters. It is a narrative woven from the threads of resilience, struggle, and profound humanity, as children battling cancer and their families navigate the complex landscape of illness and recovery. The power of these narratives cannot be understated, and their integration into healthcare discussions can have transformative effects on both health professionals and the broader medical community.

Our latest podcast episode delves into the poignant world of pediatric cancer narratives, featuring Clara Jordan from the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO) and Common Language Digital Storytelling founder Mike Lang. The discussion highlights the significant role of digital storytelling in giving a voice to children with cancer and featuring those stories at POGO’s Multidisciplinary Symposium on Childhood Cancer. By bringing these narratives to the forefront, healthcare professionals are reminded of the human element that lies at the core of their work.

The episode poignantly touches on the emotional impact of childhood illness on families, emphasizing the often-overlooked perspectives of siblings like Layya and Sarah. Their experiences illustrate the long-term resonance of personal accounts and how they can influence life choices and professional practices. These stories not only provide insight into the patient’s journey but also shine a light on the dedication of organizations like POGO to genuine patient and family-centered care.

We learn about the intricate process of crafting these narratives with authenticity, ensuring that the patient’s voice remains paramount. Through directed and probing questions, children like nine-year-old Ethan are empowered to articulate their cancer journey using metaphors, such as a racetrack, allowing them to convey their experiences in a relatable and insightful manner. The discussion reveals the unique challenges and rewards of engaging with young storytellers, showcasing the art of storytelling as a therapeutic and educational tool.

Furthermore, the episode underscores the significance of sharing these stories within the healthcare community, not only at the moment of their telling but as a lasting testament to the storyteller’s journey. The narratives have a profound impact, extending beyond the confines of the conference room and continuing to inspire and educate long after their initial presentation.

The conversation between Clara, Mike, and the podcast host, Kristy, serves as a testament to the importance of including diverse patient experiences in medical education and discourse. The episode stands as an insightful and heartfelt reminder of the strength found in the voices of young patients and their families, and the imperative to listen, learn, and be moved by their stories.

In conclusion, pediatric cancer narratives hold an immense power to influence healthcare professionals and advocate for a more empathetic and patient-centered approach to medical care. As we listen to these stories, we are reminded of the extraordinary courage of young cancer fighters and the unwavering support of their loved ones. Their voices, when heard, can have a profound impact on the world of healthcare, serving as a beacon of hope, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.

About Our Guest

Clara Jordan has driven positive change in the healthcare sector for over 12 years, earning a reputation as a pragmatic leader with a proven track record in strategic partner engagement and stakeholder collaboration.

In her current role as Manager of Education and Engagement for Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO), Clara is responsible for the strategy design and execution of the clinical education and engagement portfolios. Clara holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Master of Health Administration from Toronto Metropolitan University.

In her spare time, Clara has volunteered over 600 hours as a crisis responder with Kids Help Phone and is happiest spending time in her home city of Toronto with her husband and their three young children.

About Leading Through Stories

Everyone has a story to tell—and what we do with that story can create lasting impact. Every episode, Leading Through Stories, helps unravel the how and why of digital storytelling with host Kristy Wolfe.

Life is made up of meaningful moments—which ones do you want to share?

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ALS Digital Storytelling: Who Are These Stories For? – Co-Created

What can digital storytelling hold when a diagnosis changes everything?In this episode, Kristy Wolfe talks with Leslie Ring Adams, executive director of the ALS Society of Alberta, about creating digital stories with people and families living with ALS. The conversation centres on a question that runs through the work: are these stories for advocacy, for education, for family, or simply for the person telling them?Leslie shares how the ALS Society of Alberta supports storytellers, why the strongest stories are often about relationships rather than the disease itself, and how legacy, consent, and community shape what happens after a story is made. They also talk about caregiving, screening stories publicly, using AI voice technology when someone has lost their speech, and why these stories can help families, clinicians, donors, and researchers understand each other more deeply.This is a thoughtful listen for healthcare teams, nonprofit communicators, caregivers, facilitators, and anyone interested in ethical digital storytelling rooted in lived experience.You’ll hear about:- why ALS stories often focus on the person, not the diagnosis- how the ALS Society of Alberta uses stories for support, education, and advocacy- what families need when deciding whether a story stays private or becomes public- the role of digital stories in legacy-making and storyteller wellbeing- how story can connect lived experience with research, care, and communityLinks Mentioned:ALS Screening Still Speaking: Young Adults, ALS, and the Moments that Shape Us Common Language Story SlamDan's Digital Story, A Better Man Ireland’s Digital Story: By Book or By Heart Payton’s Digital Story, Still My Mom ALS Society of Alberta YouTubeMike Lang StoriesAbout Our GuestLeslie Ring Adams has been with the ALS Society of Alberta since 2015 and is currently the organization’s Executive Director. Her connection to ALS began when her mother was diagnosed with the disease. After experiencing firsthand the incredible support the Society provided to her family, Leslie decided to make a career change and join the organization.While that experience brought her to the ALS Society, it is the people, the mission and the opportunity to make a difference that have kept her there. Leslie considers it an honour to walk alongside individuals and families living with ALS and to be part of a community that shows incredible strength and resilience.She is passionate about making sure people affected by ALS have the support they need today, while advocating for better treatments, supporting research and working toward a future without ALS. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1. ALS Digital Storytelling: Who Are These Stories For? 25:53
2. Youth Mental Health & Storyteller Wellbeing 26:41
3. Can a Story Change Veterinary Medicine? 27:40
4. Digital Stories in Community-Based Research with Carolyn Brandly 30:02
5. Using Digital Stories in Clinician Training with Dr. Tricia Williams 30:41

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