Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center Nurse Navigator Receives 2023 Empower Award

Jessica Danik, BSN, RN, CBCN, Nurse Navigator at Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center was awarded the 2023 Empower Award by Beekley Medical.  Beekley Medical recognizes the last few years have been challenging for all healthcare workers.  Nurse Navigators have had to rise to the occasion and face many difficult factors along the way – increased biopsy volumes, delayed diagnoses, highly stressed patients, changing protocols with social distancing and so much more. The award was presented to a Nurse Navigator who exceeds expectations and strives to always advocate for her patients.

Jessica joined Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center in 2013 as a nurse navigator who assists patients with a known or suspected cancer diagnosis. She became a Certified Breast Care Nurse (CBCN) through the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. She specializes in coordinating oncology care for breast cancer patients.

 “On behalf of Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, we are thrilled that Jessica received the Empower Award.  Jessica is respected by all in our health care system.  She effectively communicates with all providers and relates information to patients in an understandable way.  She is often the first person a patient sees when found to have abnormal imaging or a new diagnosis.  Her care, compassion, and professionalism allow our patients to be reassured.  She makes sure that each patient’s individual needs are addressed.  Jessica will help patients to transition from physician subspecialists, dietitians, social workers, genetics, clinical trial nurses, and others seamlessly.  Her patients adore her and she is a model healthcare professional,” explained Jill Pelonero, BA, R.T. (R) (T), Director, Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center.  Jessica received eleven nominations from physicians and her peers. 

Jessica received the award during a special presentation and luncheon on June 22nd by Beekley Medical at Hunterdon Medical Center.