An Interview with:

Debbie Pantera, RN

Pediatric Oncology Nurse
Yale New Haven Hospital
 Pediatric Specialty Center

What drew you to this profession?

I have been a pediatric nurse for 29 years, 19 of them in pediatric oncology. Working as an oncology nurse has been extremely rewarding for me. I enjoy being involved in my patient’s direct care from diagnosis to the finality of their treatments. I am able to work collaboratively with the oncologists, and my colleagues which has given me the opportunity to meet some wonderful families and continue to establish long lasting relationships with them.

Do all children react the same to the cancer treatment?

No, each child is treated individually. It is very important to allow the child some autonomy and independence and sometimes this requires patience and encouragement from me. Some children like to know everything you are about to do to them and want to participate as much as possible. It is also important to give them some choices in their care. I find it is better to be honest so that I can develop their trust. Sometimes we are treating 10-15 patients per day but I always focus on that particular patient so that I can meet their individual needs.

Many say that childhood cancer affects the entire family and not just the child. Is that true?

This is very true. An entire family becomes affected by a cancer diagnosis. It is devastating for a parent to hear the news that their child has cancer. Frequent visits to the clinic and hospitalizations require parents to leave their jobs. They may also need to find caregivers for siblings and other family members. Financial, as well as emotional burdens can be overwhelming and this is where The Tommy Fund becomes a valuable resource. Many times they have helped a family in need to provide financial assistance by helping with gift cards for food, mortgage payments or other monthly expenses. They have always been there for the families in times of need.

The Tommy Fund also sponsors many outside functions such as the annual holiday party, golf tournament and Family Day that allow patients, their families and caregivers to interact with each other in a non-threatening environment. It is important for everyone to get together to have some fun and normalcy.

Do you ever get emotionally attached to the patients?

Yes, I do. It is very difficult not to. A relationship begins on day one and can be everlasting. Some of these patients and families come to the clinic three to four times a week. You cannot help getting attached and involved in their lives. So many have touched my heart and have helped me grow personally and professionally. I have attended birthday parties, weddings and many of the Tommy Fund events. It is wonderful to see these patients outside the hospital environment thriving and doing well. I am as grateful to be a part of their recovery, as they are for everything we are doing for them. When their treatment is completed, many families come back to visit. Sometimes the outcomes are not favorable, yet parents still want to give a part of themselves to help others. I have many wonderful memories of some of the patients and families I have met over my nursing career.

It must be very rewarding for you.

Yes, it is! Many patients exhibit such strength and courage during this very traumatic ordeal. They have taught me so many life lessons that have created such lasting memories. Despite what they have been through they always want to give back in some way. Some have chosen to raise awareness for cancer by sharing their personal experience or careers in the medical field, especially nursing. If I had anything to do with their career choice I cannot express how humbled I am. These children are the true heroes; I have so much respect and admiration for them. They inspire me everyday.