Let Me Tell You About My Aunt Maryann

The Moments Medicines Make Possible

I recently gathered with my extended family in the Finger Lakes region of New York to celebrate my aunt Maryann’s 90th birthday. This wasn't just any birthday; it was a celebration of a woman who has defied the odds time and time again. Aunt Maryann is remarkably a survivor of both breast and lung cancer. Her resilience and resolve have made her a role model for me and others.

A classically trained pianist and piano teacher, she continues to share her gift of music with the world. During the pandemic, she held little “concerts” for her community, opening her doors and playing for neighbors sitting on beach chairs in her yard. They enjoyed the sounds and connecting with others—even while socially distancing. At her 90th birthday party, she graced us all with Mozart.

Maryann successfully navigated her journey with surgery and radiation and her self-advocacy was critical in driving her own treatment journey. Her life is one example of why my team and I are deeply committed to sharing accurate and timely information about cancer and potential therapeutic options in meaningful ways. 

My Craft is Storytelling

This recounting of my aunt’s recent birthday celebration illustrates the power of my craft—storytelling. My love of words and telling stories started back when I was in high school. I was most influenced by a creative writing teacher who shared with us the art of crafting sentences with precision. He demonstrated how one sentence with the same facts and information, written in two different ways or by swapping out verbs, can be the difference between connecting with a reader or not.   

Words are powerful. We carry great responsibility to convey truthful information in ways that are relevant to our audiences so they may make informed decisions that are best for them. 

Creating Connections and Inspiring Action

The best communicators understand the difference between simply conveying information and effective storytelling. The latter makes people feel something they otherwise might not. It’s about translating complex concepts into relatable narratives. But more importantly, it’s about connecting with the audience on a deeper level. The goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, can connect with a message. 

Through the compelling stories Daiichi Sankyo shares, my team brings our organization to life. Whether it’s motivating employees to give their best each day or empowering patients to make informed healthcare decisions, as communicators, we seek to create connections and inspire action.

Watch “Where Craft Meets Storytelling”

Take a deeper dive into the power of words. Watch Where Craft Meets—Storytelling, featuring Kim Wix, Head U.S. Corporate Communications, in conversation with Matt Coppola, Head of Global Digital Communications.

Check out more videos from the “Where Craft Meets” series, featuring Daiichi Sankyo leaders who embody shokunin kishitsu, or the craftsperson spirit, on YouTube.