How long have you been an oncology social worker?
I became an oncology social worker in 2017, but I have been working and volunteering in the field of psychosocial cancer support since shortly after my own cancer diagnosis in 2010. Being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 27 significantly impacted me, and I felt strongly that I wanted to help other patients with cancer find resources and tools for getting through the process. I believe in the power of community and strive to help those faced with cancer connect to other survivors so that no one has to go through it alone.

Where do you currently work? What is your position? How long have you been there? Include prior Oncology SW work.
I work at Smith Center for Healing and the Arts in Washington, DC, as an Oncology Social Worker, Integrative Patient Navigator and Program Manager. Smith Center is a nonprofit cancer support organization with a mission to develop and promote integrative healing practices that explore physical, emotional and mental resources that lead to life-affirming changes for people affected by cancer. I’ve worked at Smith Center since 2012. My expertise is in working with young adults and integrative oncology. In 2013, I co-created the DC Young Adult Cancer Community, a partnership of 15 local hospitals and organizations that work to provide support for young adults with cancer, and I continue to manage this growing endeavor (www.youngadultcancerdc.org). Prior to working at Smith Center, I worked as a consultant, raising funds for various nonprofit organizations.

Where did you earn your degrees?
BS, Business Administration, University of Mary Washington
MSW, The Catholic University of America

How long have you been a member of AOSW?
I have been a member of AOSW since 2017.

Have you attended an AOSW Annual Conference? When/where?
I attended the AOSW conference in Baltimore, MD, as an exhibitor. This year I attended my first AOSW conference as a participant, and I was quite excited about it as I presented a session on improving oncology provider care for young adult cancer patients.

Other professional affiliations?
I am a member of NASW and the Greater Washington Society for Clinical Social Work. As a cancer survivor, I am heavily involved in the Washington, DC, cancer community. I am a State Leader, Face-to-Face Support Group co-leader and RISE Legacy Advocate for Young Survival Coalition. I am also a member of the Georgetown Breast Cancer Advocates where I work with a team of patient advocates alongside researchers, clinicians and other stakeholders to ensure research is patient-centered, innovative, evidence-based and accessible.

In your role as an oncology social worker/clinician, what is one of your favorite resources to share with clients? Why?
As I work with so many young adult cancer survivors, I tend to share resources that focus on this population. One fantastic resource I find applicable to many ages is a book titled, “Why is She Acting So Weird?: A Guide to Cultivating Closeness When A Friend is in Crisis” by Jenn McRobbie. This book, written by a young adult cancer survivor and life coach, aims to give friends ways to navigate the difficult terrain of a crisis such as a cancer diagnosis. Topics addressed range from developing a support system to what to say when you're at a loss for words. It teaches practical skills about things like helping a friend build a communication plan and how to offer advice without overstepping boundaries. This book is a great resource for both patients with cancer and their family and friends.

In your experience with survivors, would you share a memorable story with us?
My favorite, and typically most memorable work, is the work I do with young adult cancer survivors. I am very proud of the DC Young Adult Cancer Community, which provides a variety of monthly support, education and social programming for young adults cancer survivors. This group provides a much needed community for young adults dealing with cancer who may be feeling quite isolated by their diagnosis. One memorable story is of a young woman who went through her first cancer diagnosis and treatment by herself and was left highly anxious, depressed and isolated. I connected her to the young adult group about a year after her diagnosis. After her first time participating in the support group, she shared how grateful she was to have finally found people who understood what she was going through and how she didn’t feel so “crazy” anymore, since many members of the group had experienced the same feelings she had. She was recently diagnosed with a second cancer and the other members of the group immediately rallied around her, helping her to coordinate her care and build a support team. Her treatment regimen is different and, in many ways, more challenging this time, but she is coping much better thanks to this incredible support network.

In that “little something more” section, what is one thing you might share with us about you personally, one that is outside of your work life?
I have lived in Virginia my entire life and am currently married to a wonderful husband. I enjoy cooking, crafting and nature. I’m constantly trying to improve my perfectly, imperfect self-care routines. My activities of choice include meditation, yoga, running, dancing, listening to music and nature walks.