Narrative medicine applications for neuro-oncology patient identity and quality of life

Abstract Background We explore the applications of Narrative Medicine (NM) in the clinical care of brain cancer patients whose self-identity and quality of life are challenged by their disease and treatment. This paper considers how NM may help patients retain and rediscover self-identity during treatment. Methods We performed a retrospective review of NM sessions at our institution in 2016 with focus on life perspectives and priorities along with outlook or attitude and any changes in their symptoms and possible impact on their lives. Results The narratives shared by four brain cancer patients provided examples of loss of self-identity during illness and treatment, along with ways that NM sessions encouraged patient resilience and discovery of meaning. Conclusions NM sessions made visible contributions for the patients mentioned in these case studies. Understanding the patient’s story is critical for evaluating the significance of impairments due to brain cancer and treatment relative to the patient’s unique sense of self and quality of life. NM is at the nexus of clinical management and quality of life concerns for brain cancer patients. Insights from NM sessions may also help the treatment team as they assess patient needs, attitudes, and abilities.