Cecilia K.

My interest in social work started at a very early age after seeing my mother struggle with health issues. Major health conditions affect not only patients, but their families as well, so I always wanted a career that would allow me to support those in need. As it does for many, our mission hits close to home: I lost both of my grandmothers to cancer, and my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer a few years ago. Being diagnosed with cancer affects individuals and families physically, emotionally, financially and socially and can put people in a very vulnerable situation.

Through CancerCare’s free services, we can address clients’ needs and alleviate some of the burdens that can accompany a cancer diagnosis. Counseling allows clients to talk about their feelings and have the emotional support they need in such a challenging and chaotic situation. Groups allow clients to feel that they are not alone and help normalize their situation. CancerCare social workers can also assist with issues like helping children affected by cancer understand what is happening around them.

I first learned about CancerCare from a coworker whose family had used our services. My first thought was, ‘Why didn’t anyone tell me about this organization before?’ As an oncology social worker, I feel fortunate to be there for patients, caregivers, their loved ones and the bereaved. As a bilingual social worker, I am also able to overcome the language barrier that some may encounter while trying to access support services and navigate the health care system during a tough time in their lives. It is an honor to work at CancerCare and support so many individuals.