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Schedule


8:25 AM - 8:30 AM

  1. Opening Remarks

    Thursday, November 06 8:25 AM - 8:30 AM
    Summary
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

  1. Different Roles, One Mission: Inspiring Care in Pediatric Oncology Nursing

    Thursday, November 06 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Sue Zupanec, MN, NP Sue Zupanec, MN, NP
    Eleanor Hendershot Eleanor Hendershot
    Denise Mills Denise Mills
    Jose Oliveria Jose Oliveria
    Summary
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM

  1. AYA - How to Ask the Right Questions

    Thursday, November 06 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
    Summary
10:30 AM - 10:50 AM

  1. Break

    Thursday, November 06 10:30 AM - 10:50 AM
    Summary
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM

  1. Pain App for Adolescents

    Thursday, November 06 10:50 AM - 11:20 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Lindsay Jibb Dr. Lindsay Jibb
    Summary
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM

  1. Quick Hit - General Nutrition/Neutropenic Diet

    Thursday, November 06 11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
    Summary
11:50 AM - 12:35 PM

  1. CAR T and BMT - Why, When, and How

    Thursday, November 06 11:50 AM - 12:35 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Sarah Courtney Sarah Courtney
    Meagan De Jesus Meagan De Jesus
    Lee-Anne Pires Lee-Anne Pires
    Summary
12:35 PM - 1:35 PM

  1. Lunch

    Thursday, November 06 12:35 PM - 1:35 PM
    Summary
1:35 PM - 2:20 PM

  1. Infections in the Immunocompromised Patient

    Thursday, November 06 1:35 PM - 2:20 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Jeffrey Pernica, MD, MSc, FRCPC Dr. Jeffrey Pernica, MD, MSc, FRCPC
    Summary
    Using real-world case vignettes, this session will highlight key aspects of diagnosing and managing infections in children undergoing cancer treatment. Attendees will explore practical approaches to bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections, with a focus on evidence-based strategies and clinical decision-making.

2:20 PM - 3:05 PM

  1. Between a Pump and a Painful Place: Nursing Considerations in the Administration of Dinutuximab and Blinatumomab Infusions.

    Thursday, November 06 2:20 PM - 3:05 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Michaila Aitcheson Michaila Aitcheson
    Stephanie Cox Stephanie Cox
    Summary
3:05 PM - 3:25 PM

  1. Quick Hits - The ABC's of POGO Satellite Clinics

    Thursday, November 06 3:05 PM - 3:25 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Lindsay Lauer, RN, BScN Lindsay Lauer, RN, BScN
    Deb Crann Deb Crann
    Summary
3:25 PM - 3:45 PM

  1. Break

    Thursday, November 06 3:25 PM - 3:45 PM
    Summary
3:45 PM - 4:05 PM

  1. Quick Hits - QI Wellness Cart

    Thursday, November 06 3:45 PM - 4:05 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Lee-Anne Pires Lee-Anne Pires
    Summary
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM

  1. Lumbar Punctures with Minimal or no Sedation

    Thursday, November 06 4:05 PM - 4:35 PM
    Summary
4:35 PM - 5:25 PM

  1. The Heart of Healing: Challenges and Triumphs of Patient-Reported Outcomes

    Thursday, November 06 4:35 PM - 5:25 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Sue Zupanec, MN, NP Sue Zupanec, MN, NP
    Summary
    This presentation explores the opportunities and obstacles in embedding patient-reported outcomes into pediatric cancer research and clinical care. Drawing on real-world experiences, we will highlight how children’s and families’ voices can guide meaningful improvements in treatment, quality of life, and care delivery.

    The session will emphasize both the aspirations and the actionable steps needed to place the patient voice at the center of healing.
5:25 PM - 5:30 PM

  1. Closing Remarks

    Thursday, November 06 5:25 PM - 5:30 PM
    Summary
5:45 PM - 7:45 PM

  1. Welcome Reception

    Thursday, November 06 5:45 PM - 7:45 PM
    Summary
8:15 AM - 8:20 AM

  1. Opening Remarks

    Friday, November 07 8:15 AM - 8:20 AM
    Summary
8:20 AM - 8:35 AM

  1. Survivor Story

    Friday, November 07 8:20 AM - 8:35 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Vinesha Ramasamy Vinesha Ramasamy
    Summary
8:35 AM - 8:45 AM

  1. POGO Update

    Friday, November 07 8:35 AM - 8:45 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Lauren Ettin Lauren Ettin
    Summary
8:45 AM - 9:30 AM

  1. Contemporary ALL therapy: Where did it come from? Where will it go?

    Friday, November 07 8:45 AM - 9:30 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Stephen Hunger, MD Dr. Stephen Hunger, MD
    Summary
    Sixty years ago, a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was a considered an incurable disease. Thanks to cytotoxic chemotherapy, cure rates have soared to 85%—a remarkable achievement, but one that has plateaued. Now, groundbreaking advances in immunotherapy are pushing the boundaries even further. This session explores how these innovations are not only improving survival rates but also transforming the treatment landscape to minimize both short- and long-term toxicities. Join us to discover how the next generation of ALL therapy is being defined today.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

  1. Navigating the Dilemmas: Challenging ALL Cases

    Friday, November 07 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Stephen Hunger, MD Dr. Stephen Hunger, MD
    Sumit Gupta, MD, PhD Dr. Sumit Gupta, MD, PhD
    Thai Hoa Tran Dr. Thai Hoa Tran
    Moderator(s)
    Brianna Empringham Dr. Brianna Empringham
    Summary
    Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) presents a wide spectrum of clinical challenges, especially in complex or atypical cases. This dynamic session will have leading ALL experts from across North America delving into the nuances of diagnosing and managing difficult ALL scenarios. Through an interactive review of real-world cases, participants will explore diverse presentations, diagnostic dilemmas, and evolving treatment strategies. Whether you're refining your clinical approach or seeking insights into emerging therapies, this session offers a valuable opportunity to enhance your decision-making in the face of ALL’s toughest dilemmas.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM

  1. Break

    Friday, November 07 10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
    Summary


10:45 AM - 11:45 AM

  1. Session A: Building an AYA Program

    Friday, November 07 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Chana Korenblum Dr. Chana Korenblum
    Marta Wilejto Dr. Marta Wilejto
    Summary


  2. Session B: How to start a QI project

    Friday, November 07 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Allie Starr Allie Starr
    Renee Potashner Dr. Renee Potashner
    Summary


  3. Session C: PWLE Panel - Through the Eyes of a Family: Supporting and Empowering Families in Pediatric Cancer Care

    Friday, November 07 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Dawn Pickering Dawn Pickering
    Oliver Acosta-Pickering Oliver Acosta-Pickering
    Jane Cassano, MSW RSW Jane Cassano, MSW RSW
    Summary
    What is it like to be a family navigating pediatric cancer, where life-changing decisions are often made without your input? In this heartfelt session, childhood cancer survivor Oliver Acosta-Pickering and his mother, Dawn Pickering, share their powerful journey and advocate for a more inclusive, family-centered approach to care. Through their lived experience, they emphasize the importance of asking both children and parents how they feel, what they need, and recognizing their ability to contribute meaningfully to care decisions. Their story offers valuable insights into how listening, empathy, and empowerment can transform the treatment experience for young patients and their families.
    This session will inspire healthcare professionals and educators to strengthen psychosocial support, foster trust and dignity, and elevate the voices of young patients and their families, ultimately transforming the treatment experience for children and families alike.

  4. Session D: Mission Possible: Navigating Challenges in Pediatric Oncology End of Life Care

    Friday, November 07 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Brennah Holley, RN, BScN, MScN (c), CPHON Brennah Holley, RN, BScN, MScN (c), CPHON
    Cailey Riggs, BScN, BEd, RN Cailey Riggs, BScN, BEd, RN
    Summary
    Sixty years ago, a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was a considered an incurable disease. Thanks to cytotoxic chemotherapy, cure rates have soared to 85%—a remarkable achievement, but one that has plateaued. Now, groundbreaking advances in immunotherapy are pushing the boundaries even further. This session explores how these innovations are not only improving survival rates but also transforming the treatment landscape to minimize both short- and long-term toxicities. Join us to discover how the next generation of ALL therapy is being defined today.

11:45 AM - 12:15 PM

  1. Immunization in Pediatric Oncology: What’s New In Ontario

    Friday, November 07 11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Jeffrey Pernica, MD, MSc, FRCPC Dr. Jeffrey Pernica, MD, MSc, FRCPC
    Summary
    Children undergoing and following cancer treatment face unique challenges in maintaining immunity against vaccine-preventable diseases. This session will highlight recent developments in pediatric immunization protocols during and after cancer therapy.
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM

  1. Lunch

    Friday, November 07 12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
    Summary


1:15 PM - 1:30 PM

  1. Research Quick Hits #1

    Friday, November 07 1:15 PM - 1:30 PM
    Summary


1:30 PM - 2:15 PM

  1. Bridging Promise and Practice: Advancing Blinatumomab Care for Children with Leukemia

    Friday, November 07 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Sue Zupanec, MN, NP Sue Zupanec, MN, NP
    Summary
    This presentation explores the urgent need to strengthen care delivery for children receiving blinatumomab, drawing on caregiver experiences and clinical insights. We will highlight both the promise of improved outcomes, and the real-world challenges families face in managing complex at-home infusions. Key next steps for research, education, and system-level support will be outlined to ensure equitable, high-quality care across pediatric oncology settings. 
2:15 PM - 3:00 PM

  1. CNS Embryonal Tumours in Very Young Children

    Friday, November 07 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Sylvia Cheng, MD, MScCH Dr. Sylvia Cheng, MD, MScCH
    Summary
    This session offers a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of central nervous system (CNS) embryonal brain tumors (EBTs) in young children, highlighting both historical and ongoing therapeutic challenges. Attendees will gain insight into the evolution of treatment approaches and the complexities that continue to shape clinical decision-making today. The session will also introduce “DECRYPT Babybrain”, a Canadian-led clinical trial designed to address key gaps in care and improve outcomes for this vulnerable population. Join us for a forward-looking discussion on innovation, collaboration, and the future of pediatric neuro-oncology.
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM

  1. Break

    Friday, November 07 3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
    Summary


3:15 PM - 3:30 PM

  1. Research Quick Hits #2

    Friday, November 07 3:15 PM - 3:30 PM
    Summary


3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

  1. Care for the Caregiver

    Friday, November 07 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Michael Kaufmann, BSc, MD, CCFP, FCFP, dip. Dr. Michael Kaufmann, BSc, MD, CCFP, FCFP, dip.
    Moderator(s)
    Donna Johnston, MD, FRCPC, FAAP Dr. Donna Johnston, MD, FRCPC, FAAP
    Summary


4:30 PM - 5:00 PM

  1. Townhall Roundtables

    Friday, November 07 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM
    Summary


5:00 PM - 5:05 PM

  1. DAY 1 Closing Remarks

    Friday, November 07 5:00 PM - 5:05 PM
    Summary


5:45 PM - 8:00 PM

  1. Awards

    Friday, November 07 5:45 PM - 8:00 PM
    Summary


  2. Cocktail Reception

    Friday, November 07 5:45 PM - 8:00 PM
    Summary


8:15 AM - 8:20 AM

  1. Opening Remarks

    Saturday, November 08 8:15 AM - 8:20 AM
    Summary


8:20 AM - 9:10 AM

  1. Supporting Children and Youth with Procedures Using Trauma Informed Principles

    Saturday, November 08 8:20 AM - 9:10 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Nate Seroski, CCLS Nate Seroski, CCLS
    Summary
    Hospitalization and cancer treatment can be deeply distressing experiences for children and youth. This collaborative session explores how trauma-informed principles can be applied in pediatric care to recognize, prevent, and respond to potentially traumatic medical events. Attendees will gain actionable strategies and interventions designed to support emotional safety and resilience in young patients—empowering healthcare professionals and educators to make a meaningful difference during some of life’s most challenging moments.

9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

  1. Session A: Building an AYA Program

    Saturday, November 08 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Chana Korenblum Dr. Chana Korenblum
    Marta Wilejto Dr. Marta Wilejto
    Summary


  2. Session B: How to start a QI project

    Saturday, November 08 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Allie Starr Allie Starr
    Renee Potashner Dr. Renee Potashner
    Summary


  3. Session C: Career Advice for YI/Fellow

    Saturday, November 08 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Stephen Hunger, MD Dr. Stephen Hunger, MD
    Summary


  4. Session D: Mission Possible: Navigating Challenges in Pediatric Oncology End of Life Care

    Saturday, November 08 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Brennah Holley, RN, BScN, MScN (c), CPHON Brennah Holley, RN, BScN, MScN (c), CPHON
    Cailey Riggs, BScN, BEd, RN Cailey Riggs, BScN, BEd, RN
    Summary
    Caring for children with cancer at the end of life presents profound emotional and clinical challenges for multidisciplinary teams. This interactive session uses a compelling case study and elements of serious games to explore the complexities of collaborative decision-making and compassionate care. Participants will gain deeper insight into team dynamics and walk away with practical strategies to support patients, families, and each other during the most critical moments of care.
10:20 AM - 10:40 AM

  1. Break

    Saturday, November 08 10:20 AM - 10:40 AM
    Summary


10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

  1. Wilms Tumor: The ERAs Tour

    Saturday, November 08 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM
    Speaker(s)
    Elizabeth A. Mullen, MD Dr. Elizabeth A. Mullen, MD
    Summary
    Inspired by the format of Taylor Swift’s iconic ERAs Tour, this dynamic and creative session takes attendees on a journey through the evolution of Wilms Tumor care—from its initial discovery to groundbreaking treatments and the development of clinical trials that have dramatically improved patient outcomes. Each "ERA" highlights key milestones in research and care, brought to life with embedded audio clips that enhance engagement and reinforce learning. This session promises to be both informative and entertaining, offering a fresh perspective on the history and future of Wilms Tumor treatment.
11:40 AM - 12:10 PM

  1. EASE Program

    Saturday, November 08 11:40 AM - 12:10 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Lindsay Jibb Dr. Lindsay Jibb
    Summary


12:10 PM - 12:55 PM

  1. Pharmacogenetics

    Saturday, November 08 12:10 PM - 12:55 PM
    Speaker(s)
    Rod Rassekh Dr. Rod Rassekh
    Summary


12:55 PM - 1:00 PM

  1. Closing Remarks

    Saturday, November 08 12:55 PM - 1:00 PM
    Summary


Date

November 6-8, 2025

Location

Blue Mountain
156 Jozo Weider Blvd,
The Blue Mountains, ON

Rates

Early Bird (end Sept 30)
Symposium $350
Pre-Symposium Nursing Day $125
Bundle: Pre-Symposium Nursing Day & Symposium $450
Regular Rate
Symposium $450
Pre-Symposium Nursing Day $150
Bundle: Pre-Symposium Nursing Day & Symposium $500
Fellow and Student Rate
Symposium $175
Pre-Symposium Nursing Day $50
Bundle: Pre-Symposium Nursing Day & Symposium $200

More Information

education@pogo.ca