In 2017, I was diagnosed with a rare form of sarcoma. As a healthcare professional, my experience allowed me to advocate for myself and obtain timely care that may have been significantly delayed otherwise. This journey made me acutely aware of the profound isolation one feels when confronting one’s own mortality. I wondered how a layperson, lacking insider knowledge of the healthcare system, would have coped with such a crisis. Once healed, I reflected on the care I had received and realized I likely would not have survived had I not understood the system’s inner workings. Angered by this realization, I channeled that emotion into a new mission – to help others facing health challenges, so they would not have to navigate the system alone. In 2022, I obtained my certification as an RN Patient Advocate, determined to ensure no one would have to face serious illness without knowledgeable support.

With 27 years of diverse experience caring for patients in hospital and clinical settings, I have developed an extensive and nuanced understanding of our healthcare system. My background spans several areas, including: Medical-surgical, emergency, intensive care, cardiovascular, pulmonary, neuro, surgical prep and post-anesthesia, rapid response and critical care transport, telehealth, organ procurement, endoscopy, and a range of other procedures. During my time as an RN my greatest joy has always come from advocating for my patients and providing support when their feelings of fear and vulnerability prevent them from being able to care for themselves. Fortunately, my role as a patient advocate takes me away from my traditional bedside role, and allows me to focus all of my attention on supporting my clients.