Post Reports How far can a sense of purpose take us?
Nov 8, 2025
Jordie Poncy, a clinical psychologist and cancer patient, shares his journey of diagnosis and recovery, transforming his experience into a source of strength for others at Moffitt Cancer Center. Together with Jennifer Gregg, a professor and expert in meaning-focused therapy, they discuss how finding purpose can motivate patients. Jordie emphasizes the power of empathy in counseling, while Jennifer offers practical steps to regain vitality through small acts aligned with personal values, showcasing hope in the face of illness.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
From Counselor To Patient And Back
- Jordie Poncy trained as a psychologist and landed a job at Moffitt Cancer Center the week he was diagnosed with neuroendocrine carcinoma.
- He delayed starting work, became a patient, then returned to Moffitt as both counselor and patient, finding new purpose in that dual role.
Honesty Opens Patient Trust
- Jordie now tells every new patient that he's both a psychologist and a patient, which sometimes prompts strong emotional reactions.
- Many patients respond with relief because they finally feel understood by someone who shares their experience.
Ambiguity Is The Everyday Reality
- Living with cancer often means prolonged ambiguity: periods of stability coexist with the constant possibility of decline.
- Jordie says having a reason to keep fighting—like his patients—helps sustain his mental resilience and motivation.