CAMILA, Brazil

In oncological speech therapy, each patient brings a unique and often remarkable story. One case that had a profound impact on my approach was that of a young patient diagnosed with advanced tongue cancer. During treatment, she lost much of her ability to speak and eat, which left her emotionally shaken. She told me that her greatest fear was not only the physical pain, but the idea of ​​no longer being able to talk to her young children or share simple moments like family dinner.

With her, I learned that my role was not only technical, but also human. We spent weeks adjusting exercises, creating alternative communication strategies, and looking for ways to reintroduce foods that she loved. More than any technique, it was active listening and emotional connection that allowed us to make progress.

When she was able to take her first bite of solid food in months, the light in her eyes was indescribable. That moment reaffirmed for me the importance of empathy: understanding what is meaningful to each patient and working with compassion to restore them not only function, but also dignity and quality of life. This experience has shaped my practice by reminding me every day that behind every diagnosis there is an entire life that deserves to be welcomed and respected.