Welcome back to Milkweed and Monarchs, where stories bloom with resilience and connection. I’m Dawn Klem, and today I’m inviting you into one of the most profound chapters of my nursing career—the moment I stepped into the role of a brain tumor navigator.

This wasn’t just a job change. It was a soul-shifting experience that arrived late in my professional journey, yet left the deepest imprint. From navigating uncertainty in a new clinic to forging bonds with patients and families facing unimaginable challenges, this role taught me more about life, empathy, and human strength than I ever expected.

In this episode, I’ll share how I found myself in a position I never anticipated, how three unforgettable patients helped shape my decision to retire, and why this final chapter became the most meaningful one of all. These stories aren’t just about medicine—they’re about transformation, grace, and the quiet power of showing up.

So settle in. Let’s begin with how the best came last.

Chapters

• (00:00:01 ) - I Became a Brain Tumor Navigator
• (00:09:43 ) - The navigator who screwed up
• (00:18:30 ) - One patient's journey through brain cancer treatment
• (00:22:10 ) - The Impact of the Brain Tumor Navigators