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By Cindy Bevington
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Susan Berghoff, a registered nurse in oncology at the Lutheran Cancer Resource Center, was nominated as a medical professional Health Care Hero by a family member of a patient.
“Susan is not only an experienced oncology nurse, she is an exceptional patient advocate and counselor,” wrote Kristen Rajchel. “Every day, she assists and educates a range of patients, some newly diagnosed with cancer and others who are in treatment or beyond.
“(She) greets each patient with a hug and encouragement and gives each one her undivided attention.”
Part of Berghoff’s patient care involves leading support groups in the Cancer Resource Center in Fort Wayne, including breast and ovarian cancer groups.
“This is where I witnessed her tremendous gifts firsthand, when my mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer,” Rajchel said. “Susan’s genuine interest and concern envelop every group member, providing a safe and secure place for patients to share their experiences. Susan’s sage advice and support helped me help my mother and support her through her recovery.
“Susan has the special gift of being able to speak directly and honestly in a kind, considerate manner. Her dedication to her patients and support group members is the No. 1 reason my mother is doing well, even though her cancer has recurred.”
Reluctant to accept a lot of praise for the way she does her job, Berghoff said it is her patients that spur her on and give her the inspiration to do what she does.
“I facilitate the brain-tumor, gynecological, breast-cancer, leukemia and multiple myeloma support groups, and survivorship for those beyond treatment, but who still want to come to the groups,” Berghoff said. “The groups give cancer survivors an opportunity to still be connected. Walking down this cancer journey can be frightening, and the support groups give them outlets for discussing and addressing things like fatigue, mobility and even emotions.”
She was a little surprised at learning she had been nominated for an award, Berghoff said. “It’s because when you do this kind of work, you think, ‘This is what I’m supposed to be doing,’ so it was overwhelming as well as humbling because these patients do deserve the credit.
“I have to say I am glad to know a family member thinks I do a lot for cancer survivors, but my cancer survivors do a lot for me. They are guiding lights that help me help others because of what they share.”
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