My career as nurse has taken me down several paths I never thought would be possible. Two years ago, I applied for a position in the cancer center at my hospital. After working 3 years in the ER, I felt my time there was coming to an end. The long hours, missing Christmas and special events. was weighing on our family. Peter’s job was also becoming increasingly more demanding and we both agreed I needed to spend more time with our 2 girls at the time. After several months seeking out other areas, I felt the cancer center was a good fit for me. The hours were better for our family. Monday through Friday, no holidays, no weekends.

In transferring to this position, I knew that I would face many challenges, administering chemotherapy is complex and very specialized. After almost 2 years in Oncology, I can tell you that these patients have my heart. Their bravery, strength, and courage have given me so much hope. Especially during this time.

In the early stages of the pandemic, I saw the fear that many of them faced. I was also fearful. Honestly, I almost left the profession altogether. Facing an unknown future was terrifying. But mostly for these patients. Cancer patients are immunosuppressed and this meant that they were more susceptible to this virus.

I took this picture early on in the pandemic. Thankfully, we have kept COVID out of our unit. We are diligent in our mask weaing, hand washing, and limiting the amount of people who come in contact with our patients.

In the face of adversity, these patients show up for their treatment and continue to fight. It truly has given me hope throughout this whole time.

When our local Kendra Scott store reached out to me to collaborate with them for an organization in need, I knew exactly who these efforts would help. October is breast cancer awareness month, so why not give to an orgnanization giving back to not only breast cancer patients, but all cancer patients that are fighting.

Kendra Scott necklace my husband gave me for my birthday last year.

The oncology department has a specific fund that provides resources, therapies, events and so much more to these patients. This weekend, Saturday, October 3rd and Sunday, October 4th, 20% of all purchases made online Kendra Scott Sugar Land and in-store at Kendra Scott Sugar Land will be sent directly to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Survivor Fund. I am a firm believer in sowing seeds of hope and faith into the lives of others and this organization is doing just that.

Special thank you to Kendra Scott and @Ashlillyotm and @zayansmommy for joining me in this effort for an amazing organization that touches so many lives.

Happy Pinktober,

Amber