Staff Education
Melissa studied at Northern Illinois University Earning her BS in nursing in 1995. She then returned to Northern Illinois University to earn her MSN in 2008.
When did you join Illinois CancerCare?
August 2026
Hobbies / Interests
I call myself a cat lady and I love my kitties. I also enjoy time with my granddogter Gemma, a German Shepard. I also love music and attending live music concerts. If you put me in front of the ocean, I am in my happy place.
What medical change has impacted the field of cancer the most since you began practicing medicine?
Since I began nursing over 30 years ago, so much has changed, but I am excited about the addition of immunotherapy to cancer treatment.
Why did you choose your field?
Throughout my career, I have seen that most patients have been touched by cancer, whether it be themselves, family or friends. People need to be treated as a whole person, not just a disease, and we need to be able to include their support people as they wish. Compassionate and comprehensive care is the key. I always try to remember that people have situations going on in their lives that I may not be aware of, and I treat them how I would want to be treated.
Do you have any advice to give patients after they have been diagnosed with cancer?
I would want my patients to know that we will be their care team and that we will partner with them to provide the best evidence-based care tailored to their preferences and needs. There is a lot of support for patients with a cancer diagnosis, and we will help them obtain that support.