On the limits of empathy

Every week during November 2020, the indomitable Mary Freer has put together an amazing online program as part of the Compassion Revolution. It was a privilege to be in conversation with Katerina Bryant (writer and PhD student whose first book, Hysteria: A Memoir of Illness, Strength and Women’s Stories Throughout History (NewSouth) is out now; Dr Summer May Finlay (Yorta Yorta woman, public health professional and academic at the University of Wollongong) who played a pivotal part in shaping our discussion). Our session: Beyond empathy: stories that change practice was beautifully chaired by Dr Kate Bowles (Associate Dean International at the University of Wollongong Australia).


The stories of patients and those with lived experience of our health and social care systems are vital to improving the quality of our services and building our awareness and empathy. How do we challenge ourselves to go further than listening? How can we honour the stories that are so generously shared and take the lessons back to our practice?

T Shirt merchandise from the online conference. The logo says: You've got this and we've got you.