Celebrating the Role of Nursing Assistants in Oncology Care and Research With Erika Toledo, Kimberly Hartig-Balderas, and Maria Badillo, MSN, RN, OCN®, CCRP

Unsung Heroes of Patient Care

Maria Badillo opened the conversation by emphasizing the importance of nursing assistants across all care settings, from clinics and inpatient units to research and home care. “Our nursing assistants play a vital role in ensuring the well-being and comfort of those we serve,” she said, underscoring the breadth of their impact. This sentiment set the tone for a discussion that revealed the deep commitment and pride these professionals bring to their work.

Journeys into Oncology

Erika Toledo, a Medical Assistant in the Lymphoma/Myeloma Center, reflected on her transition from obstetrics/gynecology (OB/GYN) to oncology. “I am very, very proud to be part of this team here. I know we help a lot of people. We really do,” she shared. Her journey, spanning 15 years in healthcare, illustrates the commitment and passion that nursing assistants bring to their evolving roles.

Kimberly Hartig-Balderas, a Senior Clinical Studies Coordinator, described how her mother’s long career at MD Anderson inspired her own path. “I grew really fond of how closely the nurses work with each of their patients, and that’s what made me want to apply here,” she recalled. Her early volunteer experiences blossomed into a career dedicated to supporting both patients and research teams.

The Rewards of Oncology Work

Both speakers reflected on the profound rewards of their roles. For Hartig-Balderas, working as part of the research process is especially meaningful: “We get to be a part of that excitement of when a drug gets approved. It’s great to know that we were a part of that process, however long the study was open.” Her work behind the scenes ensures that nurses can focus on active patients, while she manages critical follow-up and data collection.

Toledo finds her greatest fulfillment in direct patient care. “I love interacting with my patients, knowing that I’m always bubbly and able to bring a smile to someone’s face,” she said. Witnessing patients’ transformations—from arriving in wheelchairs to walking and engaging more fully—brings her immense joy and pride. “It’s just such a good feeling to know that I’m part of this team and I am part of getting them to that place.”

Lifelong Learning and Growth

Looking ahead, both professionals are committed to ongoing growth. Toledo aspires to pursue sonography, inspired by the opportunities at MD Anderson. Hartig-Balderas, meanwhile, values the continuous learning her role provides: “Learning and training here helps me keep a healthy brain.” Their dedication to professional development ensures that patients continue to receive the highest standard of care.

Key Takeaways

• Nursing assistants are indispensable members of the oncology care team, providing both clinical and emotional support.
• Personal journeys and family inspiration often shape the careers of nursing assistants.
• The rewards of the role include witnessing patient progress and contributing to groundbreaking research.
• Ongoing education and on-the-job learning are central to professional fulfillment and excellence.

Badillo concluded with a message to all nursing assistants, “Your dedication does not go unnoticed.” On Nursing Assistants Day and every day, oncology clinicians are reminded of the invaluable contributions of their nursing assistant colleagues.

About the Speakers

Erika Toledo is a Medical Assistant in the Lymphoma/Myeloma Center at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where focuses on caring for patients at the bedside. She has been a Medical Assistant for 15 years, with experience in both OB/GYN and oncology.

Kimberly Hartig-Balderas is a Senior Clinical Studies Coordinator in the Lymphoma/Myeloma Department at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Her experiences at MD Anderson began with volunteer work as a teenager, and she began working in the Lymphoma Department in 2002. Since then, she has transitioned to working in research.

Maria Badillo, MSN, RN, OCN®, CCRP, is the Research Nurse Manager in the Mantle Cell Lymphoma/Myeloma Department at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. As a clinical trial manager, she develops research strategies and programs, manages protocol design and implementation, and coordinates patient participation in phase 1, 2, and 3 clinical trials. Ms. Badillo’s research focuses on the development of novel therapeutics for patients with hematologic malignancies and the management of adverse events to optimize treatment outcomes.