Persistence, Dedication and the Will to Make a Difference for Those With Cancer

From left: DR. EDWARD A. FABER JR., and GINA YOUNG, B.S.N., RN PHOTOS BY LANCE ADKINS

For the past 10 years, B.S.N., RN, has been associated with my program and practice, which focuses on treating patients with blood cancers, as well as bone marrow transplants and cellular therapies. Further care is provided under the guidance of clinical trials.

My practice has also included time as a private practice and, most recently, transitioned back to academic medicine. Gina has adapted and thrived in both of these environments, each of which has a unique personality.

Gina joined my practice as a medical assistant. Very early on, she demonstrated that she was capable of so much more. While raising three children, she advanced her education by becoming an LPN and RN and earned a bachelor of science in nursing degree. She has plans to enter a master of science in nursing program.

For the past five years, she has filled many roles temporarily due to staff turnover. Her experience offers her a unique perspective, which allows her to be a valuable and cherished member of the health care team. She is able to relate to and work extremely well with personnel at all levels in our program and the health care system. Throughout her daily responsibilities, she continues to “operate above her licensure.” She has extraordinary diversity in her knowledge and has a comprehensive understanding of the care required for patients with complex cases.

In addition to her success in her day-to-day duties, other reasons to consider Gina for the CURE Extraordinary Healer Award are her empathy and compassion with which she treats every patient, every day. Her special gift is her ability to relate to patients, regardless of their circumstances, and regardless if the issue is medical, professional, social or personal. Moreover, she has a distinct ability to bring these issues to the attention of other members of the health care team.

Blood cancer care and bone marrow transplants are challenging enough for our patients, but Gina’s ability to provide the intangibles with care to every patient is what makes her distinguishable and remarkable. Gina makes everything surrounding the care of our patients better, every day.

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