Alison is very involved with our oncology patients from start to finish. Our patients come in for treatment over several weeks with time off in-between therapy. On their last treatment, Alison has taken it upon herself to make a "Congratulations" banner with the patient's name on it in advance of their last admission to the hospital for treatment. She has staff sign the banner and hangs it in their room to surprise the patient when they come in. She also decorates the room and brings a cake for their celebration of life. The positive outlook on chemotherapy administration makes the patients light up and gives them a little spark on their last cycle. Our most recent patient came back to share that he was 'cancer free'. He tells us that these little acts of kindness made it 'so much more tolerable' for him and his family.
Behind the scenes, Alison role models certification with her oncology certification as well as her Masters in Education. She runs our 'ONC SQUAD' team that collaborates and evaluates the evidence-based practice of cancer therapy. She has written process improvement plans so our patients have a smooth flow from the cancer center to inpatient and back. Under her leadership, the team developed an educational binder, extravasation protocol, and Project One improvement throughout the NM health system.