Back in December, I had a conversation with Dr. Lauren Daley - Palliative Medicine physician - that’s stayed with me. One idea in particular has reshaped how I approach my work: “You can’t be compassionate without good boundaries.” Before entering emotionally intense encounters, she visualizes a protective shield around her core - not to block connection, but to stay grounded. This allows her to be fully present with patients and families, to walk alongside their sorrow without being overwhelmed or losing herself in the process.
She describes those moments of genuine human connection - when the doctor and patient roles fall away - as some of the most meaningful and restorative parts of her work. Rather than draining her, they offer perspective and resilience she carries into daily life. Her reflections reminded me that boundaries aren’t about creating distance - they’re what allow us to show up, again and again, with clarity and compassion. Since then, I’ve been donning and doffing my own version of Lauren’s shield - like PPE for the heart.
Dr. Lauren Daley is an accomplished Palliative Medicine physician dedicated to compassionate care and education. After her Family Medicine residency, she completed a year of added competency in Palliative Care at UBC. She brings a wealth of expertise to her practice at St. Paul’s Hospital, Providence Healthcare and the broader Vancouver community. Lauren became a Fellow of the Royal College and is now the Program Director for the UBC Royal College Palliative Medicine Program.