In response to December's episode of the HOPA Now Podcast, HOPA Wellness Advisory Group member Aimee Merkert contributed the following personal reflection, adding to the conversation about balancing parenthood with a career in oncology pharmacy.
Listening to the HOPA Now Podcast episode on oncology pharmacists balancing professional responsibilities with parenting resonated deeply with me. It highlighted a universal challenge: managing time, energy, and priorities between two demanding roles, being a healthcare professional and being present for family. This is not just a logistical struggle; it’s an emotional one that requires constant shifting of your mindset and prioritizing what matters most to you.
I have a 3-and-a-half-year-old, and over the past three years, my work-life balance has shifted dramatically. Before becoming a parent, I often left work physically and mentally drained. I would replay the day in my head, tasks I missed, decisions I second-guessed, and things I could have done better. That mental carryover was exhausting. Now, I have to be intentional about leaving those thoughts at work. When I walk through the door, my priority is to be present for my family.
This transition isn’t easy. Oncology pharmacy can be emotionally and cognitively draining and challenging. Shifting from that environment to the warmth and engagement my family deserves can feel like flipping a switch that doesn’t always cooperate. The joy of seeing my son and partner at the end of the day provides a sense of relief and grounding that helps me reset my frame of mind.
The podcast episode also emphasized the importance of workplace flexibility. Leadership that understands the need for urgent time off or occasional schedule adjustments makes a tremendous difference. I’ve been fortunate to work under leaders who allow me to attend family events or care for a sick child without guilt, and that support is invaluable. However, I recognize that clinical, patient-facing roles often face greater challenges in this area due to coverage requirements and patient care demands. From both a leadership and staffing perspective, these situations are complex. What has helped me is maintaining open communication with colleagues, whether for planned time off or unexpected coverage needs.
Another theme that stood out was intentionality, aligning time with what truly matters. It’s easy to get consumed by work, especially when we’re passionate about our profession. Being passionate about your job can blur boundaries. This episode reminded me that work can wait, while family moments are fleeting. Childhood milestones, laughter, and simple daily rituals don’t stop for our schedules.
Self-care is equally critical. It’s what enables us to sustain both roles without burning out. For me, self-care can be as simple as a quiet evening, a short mindfulness stretch before bed, or saying “no” to an extra task. These choices protect my well-being and allow me to show up fully, both at work and at home.
There are days when the emotional weight of my job feels overwhelming, after a tough patient case, a difficult clinical decision, or having a crucial conversation. On those days, intentional decompression is essential. On these days, I try to intentionally do something to help reset my mind and focus on myself and my family. Being burned out does not allow me provide the level of care I want to provide, nor allow me to be the mom I should be.
Ultimately, this podcast episode reinforced that achieving harmony between work and family isn’t about perfection; it’s about priorities and support. As oncology pharmacists, we are trained to care for others during one of their most challenging and difficult times, but we must also care for ourselves and those closest to us. Boundaries, self-care, and open communication are not luxuries; they are necessities. Support from colleagues, leaders, and family creates the foundation for balance.
This reflection leaves me with a renewed commitment: to be intentional with my time, advocate for flexibility when needed, and cherish irreplaceable family moments. Work will always be there - emails, patient care, and clinical decisions don’t disappear - but childhood milestones and shared laughter pass too quickly. Striking this balance is challenging, but with the right mindset and support, it is possible. And when we succeed, we not only become better parents but also better pharmacists, leaders, and colleagues.
Listen to the HOPA Now Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and to inquire about how to get your podcast reflection published, contact us at communications@hoparx.org.
