Jenny Veliz-Urzua, DNP, MBA, FNP-BC, RNFA
When I started my career, I was set on primary care. I was motivated by the benefits of disease prevention and early intervention in healthcare delivery. I never considered oncology. Truthfully, the oncology specialty chose me. There was a job opportunity at the start of my career in surgical oncology, and I opted to take it for both interest and desperation to land a job.
I had to sit and think about why I would “want” to work in oncology. Many people outside of the oncology specialty think it’s about death and dying, and frankly, the emotional toll of those patient engagements initially made me hesitant. I took the role, and it was the absolute best fit for me. There is intense vulnerability in the moment patients receive their diagnosis, and it is a moment I honor to be of comfort and offer guidance in that dark period. As I reflect on my nearly 18 years in this specialty, there have been countless meaningful exchanges that have provided me with a purpose-driven work life. These empathy-filled engagements foster profound connections that are forever etched in my core. As I care for my patients, I have the privilege to witness patient resiliency, perseverance, and strength. I bear witness to the tangible difference and impact I have on my patients and their loved ones.
Those who have chosen to practice in oncology are soldiers on the frontline battle against cancer; they provide compassionate care and are marked by unwavering dedication. We use our skills to fight cancer alongside our patients, and we celebrate the wins and mourn every loss. It is a noble calling, where the rewards have dividends beyond monetary gain. It is the chance to make a profound difference in the lives of patients with cancer and their loved ones. To those considering a career in oncology, I invite you to join this esteemed specialty. My initial hesitancy was thwarted and has been replaced by fortitude and emotional intelligence. I have developed skills navigating difficult conversations and remaining composed under pressure. My experience has facilitated my own emotional growth in stressful environments, managing my responses effectively to preserve both professionalism and compassion. Finally, I have cultivated coping strategies to manage the emotional toll, integrating adaptability into my daily choices. I am an overall better person for it.
Jenny Veliz-Urzua, DNP, MBA, FNP-BC, RNFA is a surgical oncology nurse practitioner at Stanford Health Care and a member of The Oncology Connection Editorial Advisory Board.
