Liz O'Riordan is a breast cancer surgeon, so she's involved in numerous diagnoses and treatment plans. However, when she was diagnosed herself, her perspective changed greatly. Upon her return to work after treatment, she has changed her approach to her work with patients.

The adage "you don't know someone until you walk in their shoes" is an appropriate saying for this situation. For years, O'Riordan thought she understood her patients' experience, believed she was being compassionate in her care. However, after going through her own cancer journey, she realized she had a lot to learn.

Returning to work, her job has a different meaning now as she feels a connection to patients that hadn't been possible before.

For more on O'Riordan's journey through the lens of a patient, click here.