I am a registered nurse at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I am an oncology certified nurse and my unit typically manages patients with liquid malignancies (such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma) and solid malignancies. As an oncology certified nurse, I administer chemotherapy, manage care of patients during autologous stem cell transplants, manage care of patients during/after T cell infusions and monitor chemotherapy associated issues such as neutropenia, mucositis, and pain.

I love what I do for a living and every day I work validates that feeling. I am extremely proud of the decision I made to be a nurse and COVID-19 has significantly reinforced that feeling. During this difficult time, I have witnessed the healthcare community from around the world stand together for a universal cause. Being part of this community allows you to see at firsthand the impact you have on your patients, their families, and others around you. As a healthcare professional, we are tasked with supporting, comforting, and caring for patients in one of the most difficult times in their lives. As an oncology nurse, I am rewarded every shift with forming great relationships with my patients and their families in their time of need.

COVID-19 has impacted my daily work life in several different ways. There has been another level of stress added to my daily work life. We healthcare workers have taken on several different roles within our daily workflow and it can be difficult to balance our tasks and emotions. Many of us are working longer hours than normal, and days can be challenging; however, the healthcare community is strong, and the support can be a powerful source of inspiration.

The collaboration of all members of the health system has been extremely impressive. From our environmental service workers, cafeteria workers, physicians, nurses, and other disciplinary teams, everyone has taken it upon themselves to make a difference and keep our community safe. We are all practicing as one team and moving towards the same goal.

When not at work, I spend all of my time with my husband and my three-year-old Bernedoodle, Zoey. Family and friend zoom sessions, running, and Netflix have all helped me maintain my personal well-being.

Katie Whelan, my high school field hockey coach, taught me to never give up and face adversity with confidence. From preseason to preparing me to play field hockey in college, Katie always demonstrated that hard work was needed to be successful. I carried her hard-working mentality with me and still use it every day as a nurse.