I’m a nurse practitioner with more than nine years of experience in oncology nursing, including three years in supportive care, also called palliative care. At Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, I provide support to people who are experiencing distressing symptoms because of cancer. These include pain, anxiety, nausea, constipation, and shortness of breath. I see patients at Memorial Hospital.

When patients meet with me, they are often concerned about improving their quality of life and managing symptoms. The questions that I most commonly hear from the people in my care include:

• What is supportive, or palliative, care?
• How can you help me feel better to do the things I enjoy in life?

I do my best to answer their questions and address concerns. I chose a career in healthcare because I wanted to support patients and families going through a challenging time. When I work with patients, I want to get to know who they are, outside of the cancer diagnosis and treatment. I spend time listening and learning about their values, goals, and priorities, which helps shape my approach in providing supportive care.

When I am not working, I enjoy home décor and design, antique shopping, traveling, and spending time with my husband and two children.