What do you get when you combine a passion for knowledge and a genuine love of people? The next My Purpose, Our Mission series nominee Stephanie Graham, medical dosimetrist at SSM Health Cancer Care.
Stephanie began her education in medical illustration, and soon developed an even deeper interest in medical science. She followed that interest to the field of oncology and earned her degree as a registered radiation therapist in 2018. Stephanie’s desire to learn more and develop an even broader knowledge led her to pursue a master’s degree in medical dosimetry in 2021.
Using CT scans, MRI and PET scanners, medical dosimetrists design individualized plans of treatment for cancer patients who have been prescribed radiation therapy. They calculate appropriate dosages and positions for the treatment and work closely with the patient's oncologist for an approved treatment plan. While all of this sounds very technical, Stephanie is known for her ability to connect with her patients on a very personal level.
“I have always been naturally drawn to people,” Stephanie said. “When I come into work, I don’t see a patient, I see a person. Every human is looking for someone to see them for who they are. What keeps me going in this field, that can sometimes be difficult, are the people I do connect with and help even if in a small way.”
In her nomination, Alisen Saxer, also a medical dosimetrist, remarked on the very special and meaningful relationship Stephanie formed with a former patient who received cancer care while she was a therapist.
“The first day they met, Stephanie told him how much he resembled her grandfather who had recently passed away,” Alisen said. “From that moment, and for the next six weeks of his radiation treatments, he took on the role of a friendly, compassionate grandpa. He even wrote her a letter from the perspective of a proud grandfather to open on her wedding day. It truly takes two special hearts to form this bond, and we are thankful every day that Stephanie is willing to go above and beyond to open her heart to our patients.”
Although it has been several years since that relationship was formed, the two still communicate with one another as sincere friends, and Stephanie is excited to introduce her new baby to him after she gives birth.
While Stephanie has been commended and recognized for her ability to give so much to her patients, she credits the entire team for outstanding patient care.
“The team we have here is so inspiring,” Stephanie said. “It’s amazing to watch everyone in their individual roles come together to bring out the best in each other. That’s what our patients deserve.”
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