Canadian Cancer Society: Connection and Care in Cancer Support
In a world where the healthcare industry can often seem impersonal and detached, digital storytelling emerges as a beacon of hope and empathy. The latest episode of the “Leading Through Stories” podcast brings to light the profound influence of digital narratives in the realm of cancer care. With Lacey Horta and Jenni Haggie from the Canadian Cancer Society as guests, listeners are given an immersive exploration of digital storytelling’s role in humanizing healthcare.
Our guests, with their extensive backgrounds in community management, social work, and cancer strategy, delve into their work with Common Language Digital Storytelling, particularly in the context of breast reconstruction awareness. Here, decisions are deeply personal, and the diversity of choices is embraced and respected. The emotional weight of sharing one’s journey with cancer is undeniable. Stories like Janice’s, below, which draw on childhood memories to find strength during treatment, or Diane’s, who advocates for palliative care, underscore the therapeutic value of these narratives not just for the storytellers, but for listeners who may find solace in their shared experiences.
The episode discusses how Canadian Cancer Society uses digital storytelling as a supportive environment for those navigating the turbulent waters of cancer treatment. It’s an initiative that emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of storytelling, not just for patients but for caregivers and healthcare professionals alike. The podcast beautifully illustrates the duality of digital storytelling as both a means of personal catharsis and community connection, where empathy and mutual support are the primary currencies.
As the conversation comes to a close, we’re left with a sense of reflection and anticipation. Stories of resilience and communal support, such as the exchange between individuals at different stages of their cancer journeys, remind us of the intrinsic value of shared human experiences. The versatility of digital storytelling workshops is highlighted, showing their ability to cater to a wide audience from patients to policymakers, and their power to foster healing and understanding across various perspectives.
For those inspired to craft their own digital story, Lacey and Jenni offer insights into how to get involved with the Canadian Cancer Society’s storytelling initiatives through the online community Cancer Connection. This episode is a call to action for anyone seeking comfort or wishing to offer it through their narrative. It serves as a testament to the healing power of storytelling and its capacity to weave compassion into the very fabric of cancer care and support.
In conclusion, the episode showcases the significance of digital narratives in bridging the gap between clinical treatment and emotional wellbeing. The Canadian Cancer Society’s approach serves as a shining example of how organizations can harness the power of personal stories to humanize healthcare, provide community support, and advocate for patient-centered policies. This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in healthcare, as well as those whose lives have been touched by cancer, demonstrating once again that at the heart of care is the story of the individual.
About Our Guests
Lacey Horta is a Social Service Worker, Online Community Manager, and Level 2 Digital Storytelling Facilitator who is passionate about connecting with people where they are and helping them find their story. Over the past 17 years she has worked with a variety of non-profits supporting at risk youth, people with mental illness, and individuals diagnosed with cancer and their families. Lacey’s digital storytelling experience includes working with people with cancer, advanced illness, and people experiencing grief. She is passionate about creating stories that improve patient care and help others going through a similar situation feel less alone.
Jenni Haggie is a Senior Specialist of Strategic Development and Digital Storytelling Facilitator with the Canadian Cancer Society. Over the past 5 years she has worked supporting individuals diagnosed with cancer and their families, with a focus on individuals from underserved communities. She is passionate about how digital stories can help people from underserved communities tell their stories, in their own words, to inspire change.
About Co-Created
Co-Created is a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of digital storytelling. On each episode, host Kristy Wolfe dives into conversations with the storytellers and facilitators who bring digital stories to life.
If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.
Co-Created is presented by Common Language DST, digital storytelling facilitation training for health and wellness changemakers and is supported by the team at Snack Labs.
