Making connections through storytelling

In this episode, we visit a recent event sponsored by the Becker Medical Library at the School of Medicine. Called “In Our Words: Connection,” the storytelling event brought together 12 faculty members, medical students, residents and fellows who told stories about how their lives have been affected by medicine as caregivers, those receiving care or otherwise. The idea behind the evening was to share stories and assist physicians and trainees in better understanding that they face many of the same challenges that their patients and colleagues face. Knowing that can help prevent burnout among physicians and help them to provide better care for their patients.

Emily Podany, MD, is a hematology/oncology fellow who works with cancer patients, many of whom know their time is short. Her story detailed a meeting several years ago with a patient whose only goal was to make it back home one more time to be with her children and her dogs. Podany made it her mission as a provider to help her patient do just that.

We also hear from Amy Riek, MD, an associate professor of medicine in the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipid Research. Riek was preparing to give birth to her second child when she discovered a lump in her breast. Her story dealt with how cancer can rob patients of the feeling that they have any control over their lives.

The podcast, “Show Me the Science,” is produced by WashU Medicine Marketing & Communications at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.