The power of stories and remembrance

Stories can be more powerful than statistics. Although our epidemiologic egotism compels us to scoff at the “N of 1,” it is hard to deny the influence of a poignant story over that of impersonal data. Stories from a crisis resonate deeply and foster a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. For me, Remembrance Day is a solemn annual reminder of this. On 11 November, we honor everyone who serves, or has served, Canada during times of war, conflict, and peace.[1]

Remembrance Day, originally called Armistice Day, was first observed in England on 11 November 1919 to commemorate the agreement to end the First World War, which was struck 1 year prior.[1] In Canada, we began our honored tradition of observing Remembrance Day in 1931.[1]

In the First World War, 650 000 Canadians served, and 66 000 lost their lives.[2] It is estimated that over 16.5 million people died worldwide over the course of the war.[3] These numbers are so staggering and saddening that they can be difficult to fathom and even harder to feel. When death and suffering are so big and so painful, we may be compelled to block them out, rather than reflect.

One of the ways I try to stay present is by thinking about war’s impact on my own family. Both of my grandfathers served. My maternal grandfather told stirring stories of having fought in both World Wars. At 16 years old and underage, he managed to enlist in the British Army. He recalled scores of men trudging through the mud at the Battle of Passchendaele, only to be mowed down by machine-gun fire, and seeing a commanding officer on his horse, watching and crying. During the Second World War, when my grandfather was well into his 40s, he enlisted again. Before the Army discovered he was overage, he encountered several battles, at one point jumping from a sinking ship even though he could not swim. A mate saved him, and he was eventually sent back to London, England, where my mother was born.

War stories are one example of how oral history can provide a record of people’s challenges and triumphs and create emotional bonds that data and statistics alone cannot. In medicine, stories humanize clinical practice and foster empathy and resilience. Reflecting on past experiences or patients can offer invaluable insights for future cases (even if we don’t have class 1 evidence to prove it).

This month, Dr Terri Aldred bravely shares a story in her editorial. I realize that sometimes stories are emotionally triggering, and other times they bring solace and psychological healing. Whatever the experience, I am grateful to those who preserve and share their stories; they are important and powerful. Please write to the BCMJ and tell us your story. It might not change the whole world, but it could change the world for someone.
—Caitlin Dunne, MD, FRCSC

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References

1.    Veterans Affairs Canada. 10 quick facts on . . . Remembrance Day. Modified 14 February 2019. Accessed 7 October 2024. www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/information-for/educators/quick-facts/remembrance-day.

2.    Veterans Affairs Canada. First World War (1914–1918). Modified 6 March 2024. Accessed 7 October 2024. www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/wars-and-conflicts/first-world-war.

3.    Kiger PJ. How many people died in World War I? History. Updated 10 May 2024. Accessed 7 October 2024. www.history.com/news/how-many-people-died-in-world-war-i.