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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Can a Story Change Veterinary Medicine? – Co-Created

If you care about storyteller wellbeing, healthcare burnout, or ethical digital storytelling, this conversation will stay with you.Kristy Wolfe is joined by Dr. Marie Holowaychuk, veterinarian, speaker, author, and mental health advocate, to talk about the digital story she co-created with Angie Turner for the Common Language Story Slam. Marie shares the lived experience behind her digital story, Human After All, and why telling a story about burnout, shame, and recovery felt necessary for veterinary medicine.Together, they explore:how burnout showed up across Marie’s career in veterinary practice and academiawhy she chose to tell the story of a devastating clinical mistakewhat changed when that story became a digital storyhow images, pacing, and music deepened the emotional impactwhat it felt like to watch the story with a live audiencewhy reflection and conversation matter after a story is sharedhow this work connects to caregiver wellbeing far beyond vet medThis is a thoughtful episode for veterinarians, healthcare workers, educators, facilitators, and anyone interested in how stories can make space for honesty, repair, and meaningful dialogue.If this conversation resonates, you may also want to listen to Episode 48: Resilient Stories in Vet Education, featuring Angie Turner.Other Links Mentioned:Marie's digital story at the Common Language Story SlamDST Facilitator Angie Turner of SOS LegaciesThis episode's blog postAbout Our GuestDr. Marie Holowaychuk, DVM, Dipl. ACVECC Veterinarian, Mental Health and Wellness Advocate, Speaker, and Author“What if caregiving professionals could thrive in their careers without sacrificing their wellbeing?” Dr. Marie Holowaychuk is on a mission to make that vision a reality. A passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing in caregiving professions, Marie empowers veterinary teams and other caregiving professionals to prevent burnout, build resilience, and cultivate fulfilling careers.With over 20 years of experience as a veterinarian and critical care specialist, Marie founded Reviving Veterinary Medicine to provide evidence-based resources through transformative programs like From Burnout to Balance and From Toxic to Terrific.As a certified coach, yoga and meditation teacher, and wellbeing facilitator, Marie blends science, empathy, and practical insights to engage and inspire audiences. She also hosts the Reviving Vet Med Podcast, exploring topics such as mental health and workplace culture. Her contributions have earned her the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association’s Communication Award and the Alberta Blue Cross Face of Wellness Award, as well as being recognized as one of Canada’s Top Keynote Speakers of 2025 by Eureka Education and Top 100 Health & Wellness by Top 100 Magazine. Marie’s book, A Compassionate Calling: What It Really Means to Be a Veterinarian, offers a candid exploration of the challenges and rewards of a career in veterinary medicine, shedding light on the emotional complexities and deep sense of purpose that drive those in the profession. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1. Can a Story Change Veterinary Medicine? 27:40
2. Digital Stories in Community-Based Research with Carolyn Brandly 30:02
3. Using Digital Stories in Clinician Training with Dr. Tricia Williams 30:41
4. Digital Stories Belong in Curriculum & Communities with Dr. Mike Lang 29:05
5. What Changes When We Treat Stories Like Data with Dr. Katharine Smart 26:36

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