In celebration of National Nurses Week, Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital introduces Oncology nurse, Stela Cocian.

How long have you worked at Saint Joseph's?

Since December, 1985.

What is your current role at Emory Saint Joseph's?

As a nurse, we fulfill many roles. Specifically as a Oncology nurse, I find that many times I am the charge nurse, which means I oversee and manage the flow of the floor and staff, as well as, be a caregiver, advocate and educator for the patient.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

I chose nursing as a career because I love to help people. There is no greater joy and honor than to be a helpful hand to someone in need and to make a difference in a person's life.

Why do you love nursing, and why is it important to you personally?

I love nursing because the end result is always the same: we are part of a team of multiple staff members that have a shared goal of helping the patient. As a nurse, we have the privilege to be the voice of the patient/family, discerning the needs of the patient and we do our best to take care of those needs. This is important to me, personally, because I know what it feels like to be on the other end of needing help as a cancer survivor.

Do you have a special patient experience to share?

Each patient interaction is special but by far the most rewarding element of nursing for me is the ministry I have in encouraging these patients. When the patient hears that I am a cancer survivor, the smile I get back from each patient is priceless and reminds me of why I work in one of the most difficult areas in medicine.