Andrea took on the role of Adolescent and Young Adult Resource Navigator in June of 2024. She stepped into this role with a goal and desire to help our AYA population. Andrea is a nurse by training, and this experience and expertise have been so incredibly helpful to our young adult patients navigating a cancer diagnosis. Andrea's work ethic is unmatched, and she is fully present and caring when talking with some of our most vulnerable patients. Andrea has leaned in to make sure our staff and patients know about her role, and ensure she can touch every AYA oncology patient in the health system. Andrea has perfected pulling reports in Epic and EDW to proactively reach out to over 2,000 AYA patients and ensure they know about support and resources to help them along their cancer journey. Andrea's comprehensive assessment helps identify barriers to care, social determinants of health, and both emotional and health-related needs.

Andrea alone has connected patients with over $175,000 in grant funding to help reduce the financial toxicity our AYA patients experience. Andrea is quick to say yes and was able to take a delegation of NM AYA survivors to this year's Cancer Con Conference. Our NM participants were quick to notice that the NM AYA Program is unlike any other program in the county, due in part to Andrea's efforts. Andrea is kind-hearted, dedicated, and passionate about her work with the AYA population. I am so proud to work alongside her and know she will continue to do amazing things as her program grows. I hope you will consider her for an NM Star Award. While Andrea may not see recognition as necessary, I hope we can celebrate her for all the work she does to ease the stress of being an AYA cancer patient. Thank you for your consideration.