I would like to recognize Sonia Cerlanek for her exceptional dedication to patient education and compassionate care in Radiation Oncology.

Sonia has gone above and beyond to empower our patients through knowledge. She spearheaded an initiative to enhance our waiting room with comprehensive educational resources covering topics such as cancer screening, cancer pain management, nutrition, smoking cessation, survivorship and stress management, transportation assistance, and advance directives. She also recently introduced a Monthly Cancer Awareness spotlight section to further engage and inform patients.

Sonia not only ensures that each section is well-stocked and up to date, but she also tracks how often resources are used to better understand and meet our patients’ educational needs. Her attention to detail and proactive approach have transformed our waiting area into a true learning environment.

Beyond this initiative, Sonia provides thorough, individualized education to patients prior to starting radiation therapy, explaining complex treatments in an approachable way. Her dedication is exemplified by an educational video she helped create for patients undergoing radioligand therapy, which is a clear and compassionate resource detailing the treatment process, potential side effects, and safety precautions.

Countless patients have expressed their gratitude and admiration for Sonia during their weekly visits. She embodies compassion in every interaction; crying with patients when they are scared, laughing with them when they need hope, and holding their hand through one of the hardest journeys of their lives.

Sonia continuously looks for ways to improve both patient education and patient care. Her empathy, initiative, and commitment make a profound impact on everyone she encounters.

I truly cannot think of anyone more deserving of this DAISY Award than Sonia Cerlanek.