2025 WIM Katie Ryan

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

My father was diagnosed with AML as an adult and underwent a bone marrow transplant and clinical trials. Walking through that experience with him showed me both the power of medicine and the vulnerability of patients and families. It inspired me to devote my career to caring for children with cancer, so that I could help families facing their own unimaginable journeys.

What is a challenge you experience in pursuing a career in medicine?

Balancing personal well-being, scholarly activity, patient care, and family time as a new mom is an ongoing challenge. During residency, a male pediatric oncologist once asked me if I was sure I wanted this career “because don’t you want to have a family?” My answer then, as now, is yes—I can do both, and women are amazing.

What is the most fulfilling part of your work? 

Supporting families through the hardest moments of their lives and celebrating with them when treatment is successful is the most rewarding part of my work.

What strategies do you use to maintain your own well-being?

I prioritize talk therapy every week, I protect my 6–8 pm as family time during the week as much as possible, I make a point to check in with my colleagues regularly on how they're doing, I make sure to plan and take vacation time, and I limit social media use. These boundaries help sustain me personally and professionally.

What advice would you give someone starting in the field? 

Take time to care for yourself FIRST, so you can bring your BEST self to the people, patients, and families who will depend on you. This is the most meaningful and rewarding career in the world—you will be invited into the most vulnerable moments of a family’s life and have the privilege of walking alongside them with hope, compassion, and healing. And remember, don’t let anyone define your limits—especially as a woman in medicine. Show the world what’s possible.