Being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2022 was a traumatic experience, to say the least. I have absolutely no family history of any type of cancer and truthfully, I was one of those people who thought it would never happen to me. Well, it did. The mental and emotional impact was very frightening and distressing.

I chose CARTI for my medical care and needs, receiving most of the chemo infusions, labs, doctor visits, and CT scans at one of the satellite locations. All the staff at this location were excellent professionals, but one infusion room nurse stood out among all the others, Alison Ruff.

From my very first visit as an apprehensive patient not knowing what to expect, Alison was there to comfort and attend to my every need. Her sweet voice and reassuring manner immediately eased my fears and nervousness.

For every visit to the clinic, she was always the same - friendly, professional, comforting, uplifting, and extremely competent at her job. My veins are extremely hard to access. They roll, blow, hide, and generally do everything in their power to avoid any type of needle. On one visit to another medical facility, they tried unsuccessfully 7 times to find a vein. I refer to Alison as “first time, every time Alison” because every time she started my IV, she found the vein on the first try. That was a major accomplishment and certainly made my chemo visits a lot more pleasant.

While all the nurses at the clinic I visit are wonderful, Alison's compassion, skilled competence, professionalism, and winning attitude are second to none. Her enthusiasm, encouragement, and heartfelt hug on my last day of chemo meant more to me than words can express and will not be forgotten.