Survivor's Childhood Cancer Experience Inspires her Career in Pediatric Oncology Nursing
Tuesday, August 30, 2022
By: Kafia Ibrahim

Kafia Ibrahim was inspired by her POGO Nurse and POGO Counsellor

Here’s what Kafia had to say about her career in pediatric oncology nursing:

How Being a Survivor Informs her Care of Patients
“I feel like my experience with cancer allows me to see the bigger picture when providing care to patients and their families. I know firsthand the impact that it can have on parents and siblings. The caregiver who stays at their child’s bedside is often pulled in two directions—being with their sick child and being at home with their other children and/or their partner. This often adds to an already stressful situation, leaving the in-patient caregiver feeling guilty or like they aren’t doing enough while siblings are often left on the sidelines and are expected to be able to cope with their missing sibling and parent.”

The Rewards of Pediatric Oncology Nursing
“The most rewarding thing about working with pediatric oncology patients is getting to know them and their families. This job allows me to meet the bravest people. I also have the privilege of providing them with support while they may be dealing with one of the hardest experiences of their lives. The thought that I may be able to help make at least one day more bearable for these patients and their families is exactly why I got into this profession.”

What Motivates Her
“When I see the impact that my care can have on patients, it motivates me to work harder. I want my patients to know that when I am their nurse for that shift, that I am going to try my best to make sure that they feel supported and that they are included in the care that I am providing.”

Her Future Career Plans
“In 3-5 years I hope to be able to work as a POGO Interlink Nurse. I would like to figure out a way to better streamline the transition from pediatric to adult care for patients. I also want to emphasize the importance of following up with patients after treatment because I’ve noticed that people have the hardest time coping after they are done treatment.

My future plans also include implementing a primary prevention plan for the oral health of pediatric oncology patients, since side effects of treatment can often lead to poor oral health; creating an in-patient program for teens to be able to connect with each other while they are admitted; participating in clinical trials that involve improving pain control; and implementing family therapy for patients and families that may be interested.”

Advice for Patients and Survivors
“My biggest piece of nursing advice can apply to both current patients and survivors of childhood cancer: Join a community or support group that includes people who have also experienced cancer. There is nothing more comforting and bonding than receiving advice and support from people who actually know what you are going through. Whether this community is online or in-person, sharing your experience with other people who just get it can really aid the healing process. I was fortunate enough to be involved with Campfire Circle (formerly Camp Oochigeas and Camp Trillium). The friends that I made there more than 10 years ago continue to provide me with support and kindness today."

Kafia Ibrahim is a registered nurse at The Hospital for Sick Children. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Seneca/York Collaborative Program. She is a two-time childhood cancer survivor.