2 answers
Alivia
Student
Fort Collins, Colorado
1
Question
Asked
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To all pediatric oncologists: what keeps you motivated whenever you encounter a terminal child?
I have wanted to become a pediatric oncologist for 4 years now. But, whenever I describe my aspirations to an adult or mentor, they tell me that it will be too hard and mentally taxing. So, what keeps you going whenever the job brings you down?
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2 answers
Brittany Sult
Registered Nurse- Emergency Department
1
Answer
Pensacola, Florida
Updated
Brittany’s Answer
I’m not a pediatric oncologist, but as an RN in the Emergency Department I’ve seen my share of tragedy. Having a good support group through coworkers or friends who understand your line of work and your struggles is a huge help. You have to find joy in whatever pockets you can. You’re a part of a patients worst time of their life- that is a privilege and don’t take that role lightly. Think about the kind of doctor you would want for yourself, for your family, and keep that in mind when the work gets mentally and emotionally challenging! Keep on working towards your goal- you got this!!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Alivia
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Becoming a pediatric oncologist is a noble and challenging career choice. The emotional toll of working with seriously ill children can indeed be overwhelming at times, but many pediatric oncologists find motivation and fulfillment in their profession. Here are some factors that keep them going:
1. **Impact on Lives:** Pediatric oncologists have the opportunity to make a profound and positive impact on the lives of children and their families. The chance to save or improve a child's life can be an incredibly motivating factor.
2. **Resilience:** Many doctors in this field develop resilience over time. They learn to cope with difficult situations and find strength in the support of their colleagues and patients' families.
3. **Teamwork:** Pediatric oncologists work closely with a multidisciplinary team of nurses, social workers, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals. This collaborative environment provides emotional support and shared responsibility.
4. **Patient Resilience:** Witnessing the resilience and bravery of their young patients can be inspiring. Children facing serious illnesses often demonstrate remarkable strength and determination, which can uplift healthcare providers.
5. **Advancements in Treatment:** Being part of a field that continually advances in treatments and therapies can be motivating. Pediatric oncologists contribute to research and innovation that improves outcomes for their patients.
6. **Supportive Network:** Having a supportive network of colleagues who understand the unique challenges of the profession is crucial. Sharing experiences and seeking advice from peers can help pediatric oncologists cope with difficult situations.
7. **Mentorship:** Seek out mentors in the field who can provide guidance and share their experiences. Mentorship can help you navigate the emotional challenges and uncertainties of the profession.
8. **Self-Care:** Prioritize self-care and mental health. Pediatric oncologists often deal with intense emotions, so maintaining a healthy work-life balance and seeking counseling or support when needed is crucial.
9. **Finding Meaning:** Reflect on the deeper meaning of your work. Pediatric oncologists often find a sense of purpose and fulfillment in helping families navigate difficult times and offering comfort and hope.
10. **Remembering Success Stories:** Celebrate the successes and positive outcomes. Remembering the children who have overcome cancer and are now leading healthy lives can provide motivation during challenging times.
While the journey to becoming a pediatric oncologist is demanding, the potential to make a difference in the lives of young patients is a powerful motivator. It's essential to acknowledge the emotional challenges and build strategies for resilience and support, but for many, the reward of helping children fight cancer outweighs the difficulties. If this is your dream and passion, don't be discouraged by others' concerns; instead, seek guidance from experienced professionals and continue to pursue your aspirations.
1. **Impact on Lives:** Pediatric oncologists have the opportunity to make a profound and positive impact on the lives of children and their families. The chance to save or improve a child's life can be an incredibly motivating factor.
2. **Resilience:** Many doctors in this field develop resilience over time. They learn to cope with difficult situations and find strength in the support of their colleagues and patients' families.
3. **Teamwork:** Pediatric oncologists work closely with a multidisciplinary team of nurses, social workers, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals. This collaborative environment provides emotional support and shared responsibility.
4. **Patient Resilience:** Witnessing the resilience and bravery of their young patients can be inspiring. Children facing serious illnesses often demonstrate remarkable strength and determination, which can uplift healthcare providers.
5. **Advancements in Treatment:** Being part of a field that continually advances in treatments and therapies can be motivating. Pediatric oncologists contribute to research and innovation that improves outcomes for their patients.
6. **Supportive Network:** Having a supportive network of colleagues who understand the unique challenges of the profession is crucial. Sharing experiences and seeking advice from peers can help pediatric oncologists cope with difficult situations.
7. **Mentorship:** Seek out mentors in the field who can provide guidance and share their experiences. Mentorship can help you navigate the emotional challenges and uncertainties of the profession.
8. **Self-Care:** Prioritize self-care and mental health. Pediatric oncologists often deal with intense emotions, so maintaining a healthy work-life balance and seeking counseling or support when needed is crucial.
9. **Finding Meaning:** Reflect on the deeper meaning of your work. Pediatric oncologists often find a sense of purpose and fulfillment in helping families navigate difficult times and offering comfort and hope.
10. **Remembering Success Stories:** Celebrate the successes and positive outcomes. Remembering the children who have overcome cancer and are now leading healthy lives can provide motivation during challenging times.
While the journey to becoming a pediatric oncologist is demanding, the potential to make a difference in the lives of young patients is a powerful motivator. It's essential to acknowledge the emotional challenges and build strategies for resilience and support, but for many, the reward of helping children fight cancer outweighs the difficulties. If this is your dream and passion, don't be discouraged by others' concerns; instead, seek guidance from experienced professionals and continue to pursue your aspirations.