Being a new nurse comes with many challenges and gaining experience is a journey, but Haley Carroll’s first day on the job was far from her first day in a hospital.
Haley was diagnosed with lymphoma right before her senior year of high school, and she was declared cancer-free on December 2, 2015.
Inspired by the incredible care she received during her cancer treatments and during her time at Renown Children’s Hospital, Haley enrolled in nursing school at the University of Nevada, Reno. She graduated in December 2020, just five years after beating cancer.
“I’ve always been interested in nursing,” Haley says. “But once I was diagnosed and began to see everything that my nurses did for me, I knew that that’s what I wanted to do for patients, too.”
Determination in Action
Our latest annual report features compelling patient stories just like this one. The report also includes our COVID-19 response, technological advancements, patient stories and community collaboration.
Now a registered nurse, Haley works on the cancer unit at Renown Regional Medical Center, where she provides care to patients battling cancer. Just like her nurses cared for her.
“I’ve learned how much of an impact I can have on my patients,” she says. “I’ve been able to share my cancer survival story with some of my patients and my experience has helped me form an even stronger connection with them. I know what they’re going through – I know the pain – being able to understand them on a deeper level helps me be a better nurse.”
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and according to Dr. Catherine McCarthy, Professor of Family and Community Medicine at UNR School of Medicine and physician champion with the Healthy Nevada Project, one of the most important risk factors is often overlooked: family history.
Managing lymphedema effectively is essential for enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. Katherine Bunker, a Physical Therapist and Certified Lymphedema Therapist (PT, DPT, CLT) at Renown, has expertise in this area and her insights offer valuable strategies for managing lymphedema.
Renown Employee Honored at Nevada Basketball Cancer Awareness Game
Renown Health and Nevada Wolf Pack Basketball teamed up to “Take Charge Against Cancer,” raising awareness and funds during the Men’s Basketball game on Saturday, Feb. 21. Amber, Manager of Imaging at Renown South Meadows Medical Center, was recognized during the game and presented with the game ball, a meaningful moment shared with her sister, one of her sons and her boyfriend.
