Michael Lemma, Co-Founder of Hope Oncology Specialty Clinic and Executive Director of October Breast Cancer Survivor’s Support Group at Hiwot Fana Cancer Treatment Center, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Breaking Bad News: Learning, Unlearning, and Growing Together
Today at Artist Dr. Ali Birra Memorial Cancer Treatment Center, we had one of those rare training days that stays with you long after it ends.
Our oncology team participated in a role playing training on breaking bad news, one of the most difficult yet essential skills in cancer care. The session focused on real world scenarios, including two cases of progressive disease, allowing us to confront the emotional, ethical, and communication challenges we face daily with our patients and their families.
What made the experience especially powerful was the level of engagement. Two of our senior general practitioners courageously stepped into the role-play, working closely with the palliative care team, modeling openness, humility, and a genuine willingness to learn. Their participation reminded us that communication skills are not something we “finish learning” at any stage of our careers.
The room was full not just physically, but intellectually and emotionally. Senior consultants, residents, general practitioners, nurses, and radiotherapists all contributed perspectives, feedback, and reflections. It truly felt like a shared learning space, breaking down hierarchies and reinforcing the idea that compassionate cancer care is a team effort.
We were reminded that breaking bad news is not just about delivering information, it’s about presence, empathy, silence, listening, and supporting hope, even when cure is no longer possible.
And perhaps the biggest takeaway of the day?
If you think you’re perfect, think twice and record yourself while doing a role play!
Self-reflection can be uncomfortable, but it is one of the most powerful tools for growth. What a day?!! Grateful for my team, the honesty, and the continuous commitment to doing better for our patients, one conversation at a time!!!”
More posts featuring Michael Lemma on OncoDaily.
