This article explores the intricate journey of caregiving in the context of rare cancer, emphasizing its transformative impact on individuals and family dynamics. Through the personal lens of the author— a doctor, psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst-in-training, as well as a sibling and caregiver—it navigates the phases of diagnosis, treatment, and acceptance. Serving as a case study, it reflects the emotional and psychological complexities of caregiving, particularly within Southeast Asian cultures, where familial duty and collective well-being are paramount. Key themes include honoring the patient’s autonomy, processing grief, and understanding the caregiver’s need for control, often rooted in a desire to protect loved ones in times of helplessness. These themes resonate in cultures where interdependence and respect for family roles are central, framing caregiving as both a medical and cultural responsibility. The article also underscores the vital role of self-care, offering practical strategies tailored to Southeast Asian contexts, where balancing personal well-being with societal expectations is crucial. By focusing on the process of acceptance, it provides insights into navigating the emotional and cultural challenges of caregiving, highlighting the resilience, love, and community support that caregivers draw upon. This presentation is designed for a Neuroscience and Psychiatry convention in Bangkok, and it considers the cultural significance of caregiving in Southeast Asia, while emphasizing universal themes of compassion, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of rare cancer.

Dr. Christine Rio Bistis-Nadala, MD, PhD, MPM, is a newly appointed faculty member at the Greater Kansas City Psychoanalytic Institute and a pioneering member of its Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity. She brings a wealth of expertise in psychoanalysis, mental health, and caregiving, enriched by her academic studies at Harvard and her extensive cross-cultural experience. Throughout her career, she has held notable roles, including faculty adviser at the Development Academy of the Philippines, professorial lecturer at West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Medicine, and Chief Resident in Psychiatry at West Visayas State University Medical Center. In recognition of her pioneering work in community mental health, Dr. Bistis-Nadala was honored as the Most Innovative Doctor to the Barrios in 2013 and received the WVSU Presidential Award in 2018. She has delivered lectures on mental health, psychoanalysis, and caregiving across Vietnam, Thailand, and global platforms such as the Philippine Psychiatric Association and the American Psychoanalytic Association. Dr. Bistis-Nadala is dedicated to advancing mental health awareness and integrating psychoanalytic principles into medical education, with a commitment to improving mental health care worldwide.