Erika Rosato, RN, OCN, NE-BC, MHA, and her team wage daily battles with cancer, administering and monitoring cutting-edge clinical trials that offer hope where often there had been none.
As nursing director of the Yawkey 8 Infusion Unit and the Henri and Belinda Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies, Erika inspires her staff and patients with her reassuring confidence and calm professionalism in the face of uncertain outcomes. She never loses sight that a clinical trial’s positive result could benefit thousands.
“Erika works with patients receiving trial drugs so there are many highs and lows,” says nominator Greg Chastain of Voices of Hope, a performing arts group which raises funds for research at the Termeer Center. “Even with that knowledge, Erika inspires her patients and her staff to believe that everyone who comes to the center will leave with a healthier and more productive life than when they walked through the doors.”
Erika’s commitment extends well beyond her role at the Mass General Cancer Center. Many in her community turn to her when diagnosed with cancer, and she generously shares her knowledge and expertise.
“When I was first diagnosed with cancer, the first person that I called was Mrs. Rosato,” wrote Mary Hunt, who nominated Erika before her passing in November 2015. “She walked me through the entire process that resulted in the amazing treatment that I received. Because of her, I have extended my life beyond initial expectations. Although my time is limited, it is important to me and to my family that you consider Mrs. Rosato for this great honor.”
