Various stories from the Huntsman Cancer Institute highlight the significant impact of nursing professionals, caregivers, and clinical teams in the field of oncology. These accounts showcase the personal connections and professional dedication required to support patients through cancer treatment and recovery.
Fred Roth, a former leukemia patient, shared his experience regarding the power of connection and the role of clinical teams and caregivers. Similarly, Janis Gunnell focuses on empowering clinical staff through service and education to ensure compassionate, high-quality patient care.
Anthony Bradley, who underwent limb salvage surgery after a sarcoma diagnosis as a high school senior, now serves as an operating room nurse. In a different capacity, Amber serves as the first breast imaging nurse coordinator at Huntsman Cancer Institute, assisting patients with the breast biopsy process and providing emotional support.
Other nursing professionals include nurse practitioner Emily Erickson, who reflected on her decades-long journey in oncology and her commitment to patient-centered care. Cassidy Kotobalavu, a nurse educator at HCI, experienced cancer firsthand when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015.
In terms of recognition, Douglass Clapp, a nurse manager at Huntsman Cancer Institute, received the Patriotic Employer award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, following a nomination by Captain Christy Jonkman. Additionally, Dr. Doug Fair and the Center for HOPE team earned 2022 Cancer Community (C2) awards for their contributions to patient care and cancer research.
The institute also focuses on expanding care models, such as bringing specialty cancer care to patient homes in rural Utah through a $4.5 million gift from the Huntsman family. Research has also evaluated oncology hospital-at-home models, noting evidence of lower health care costs and fewer unplanned visits.
