HOUSTON – Each year, over 1.2 million Americans receive a cancer diagnosis, a journey that can be both overwhelming and daunting. However, there is promising news as advancements in cancer treatment continue to grow. Memorial Hermann is at the forefront of providing comprehensive support through its oncology nurse navigator program, ensuring that no patient faces cancer alone. Recently on “Houston Life,” Nurse Navigators Manager Mandy Owens, along with oncology nurse navigators Shernette Sherrill and Makenzie Hancock, shared insights into this invaluable service.
Mandy Owens emphasized the program’s core belief: “No patient should have to fight cancer alone.” The nurse navigators at Memorial Hermann guide patients through every stage of their cancer treatment, from diagnostic testing to chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and into survivorship. This holistic approach ensures that patients have a supportive hand to hold throughout their journey.
For Makenzie Hancock, the role of an oncology nurse navigator is deeply personal. With a strong family history of breast cancer, including her sister’s recent diagnosis, Hancock brings empathy and understanding to her work. “Having that experience really helps me empathize and provide the best care that I can to patients and family members,” she shared. Memorial Hermann offers this service free of charge, with at least one navigator available at each of its campuses.
Shernette Sherrill highlighted the importance of continued support even after treatment. Memorial Hermann’s survivorship centers, such as the Linda A. Family Resource Center and Canopy Cancer Survivorship Resource Center, offer a wide range of free services. These include support groups, psychological counseling, fitness classes like Zumba and yoga, and even pet therapy. The centers aim to provide a community for patients and their families, ensuring they never feel alone.
The program also extends its support to caregivers, offering resources and groups for those who assist loved ones through their cancer journey. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone impacted by cancer receives the care and support they need.
Memorial Hermann’s oncology nurse navigator program is open to the public, meaning anyone can access these resources, regardless of whether they are a patient at Memorial Hermann. This commitment to community support underscores the program’s mission to provide compassionate care to all.
For more information on how oncology nurse navigators can assist you or a loved one, visit Memorial Hermann’s website. The journey through cancer is challenging, but with the right support, patients and their families can navigate it with hope and resilience.