Allison M.

I always wanted to go into a helping profession. Inspired by the passion and dedication of social workers in my first job after my undergraduate degree, I quickly discovered that this career was a perfect fit for me. It embodies so many values that align with my personal beliefs, such as social justice, advocacy, empowerment and treating all with dignity and respect.

Some of my first work was in a program that provided bereavement, caregiver and counseling support for those affected by a serious illness, and often cancer. I was inspired by how resilient my clients were and how meaningful the work was. Social work is needed in oncology due to how impactful cancer is, regardless of someone’s socioeconomic status, age, race and so many other factors.

CancerCare is unique in its expertise in many different areas of cancer and support, but also in that its services are provided at no cost to clients. This is much needed, as many of our clients experience financial hardship due to the cost of cancer. The support CancerCare provides to its clients is not contingent on anything. Our only goal is to provide the support that our clients need.

I often work with clients who don’t know anyone else who has been affected by cancer in the ways that they have. It is relieving for them to be able to talk to social workers with knowledge of the issues they face, or to be able to share their experiences in groups with people who know what they’re going through. I find it incredibly satisfying to use my social work expertise to assist someone in need and watch my clients find hope and positivity in such difficult times.