At Azra AI, we are privileged to shine a spotlight on exceptional individuals in oncology care who go above and beyond to make a difference in patients' lives. This January, we are thrilled to introduce Geri Catton, a dedicated nurse navigator from MultiCare Yakima Cancer Center, as our Oncology Hero of the Month. Geri’s remarkable career and compassionate approach to patient care exemplify the very essence of what it means to be a hero in healthcare.
A Journey Rooted in Oncology
Geri shares her inspiring journey of nearly four decades in oncology nursing. Starting as a bone marrow transplant nurse at the University of Washington in Seattle, Geri has worn many hats—clinical nurse educator, clinical trials nurse, and now a GI Oncology Nurse. Her career reflects not only her deep expertise but also her unwavering commitment to supporting patients during some of their most challenging moments.
What Inspires a Nurse Navigator?
Geri’s motivation stems from her passion for guiding patients through the cancer journey. As she explains in the video, hearing a cancer diagnosis is one of the most devastating experiences for patients and their families. Her role as a navigator allows her to provide clarity, comfort, and proactive support, ensuring no one feels alone. From explaining treatment side effects to helping patients understand medical reports, Geri’s work makes a profound impact on their journey.
Making a Difference with Azra AI
One of the most impactful stories Geri shares highlights the power of technology in improving patient outcomes. Utilizing the Azra AI platform, Geri identified a 32-year-old patient from Guatemala who had fallen through the cracks of the system. Thanks to her intervention, the patient received timely care including pain management that they otherwise wouldn’t have had access to. This case truly highlights Geri’s dedication and the vital role of innovative tools in enhancing care delivery.
Advice for Patients and Navigators
Geri’s advice to patients facing a cancer diagnosis is clear: come prepared to appointments and ready to ask questions to help better understand your care journey.
For new nurse navigators, she emphasizes the importance of focusing on one patient at a time and prioritizing patient-centered care. By staying present and adaptable, navigators can make a meaningful difference in each patient’s cancer journey.
As we kick off 2025’s Oncology Hero recognitions, we celebrate Geri Catton’s outstanding contributions to oncology care. Her expertise, compassion, and advocacy exemplify the qualities of a true Oncology Hero. Thank you, Geri, for your dedication to improving the lives of patients and their families. We are honored to recognize your incredible work and share your story with the world.
In addition to the Oncology Hero recognition, Azra AI has made a contribution to the charity of Geri’s choice in the month of January 2025. Geri's charity of choice is the Wounded Warrior Project. Please join us in donating to this organization this month!
Do you know an inspiring nurse navigator, oncologist, researcher, or advocate who deserves to be recognized? Nominate them as our Oncology Hero of the Month for 2025 here.
