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St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Home
When I think about my journey, I’m amazed at how life has led me to where I am today—a pediatric oncology nurse at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a proud Memphian. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has shaped who I am.
I was born in Texas, but my parents are from Zacatecas, Mexico. When I was a baby, we moved to Mexico, where I spent my early years before returning to the U.S. Adjusting to life in Kansas was tough—I started school not knowing any English, and there weren’t programs like English as a Second Language back then. My cousin would interpret for me, but I learned quickly. Things got easier when we moved to Memphis three years later. I found a welcoming community with other Spanish speakers and resources to help me succeed. That’s one of the reasons I love Memphis—it’s a city that embraces diversity.
Nursing wasn’t always part of my plan. My son, Noe, was born with health challenges, and we spent the first five years of his life in and out of hospitals. Those experiences inspired me to pursue nursing, so I could better advocate for him and other families. Balancing school, appointments, and the pandemic was hard, but I pushed through.
Noe is 9 now and stable, and I’m proud to say I achieved my dream of becoming a nurse.
St. Jude is more than a workplace—it’s a community. The support here is incredible. I feel valued and appreciated every day. I’m grateful to be part of such a diverse city and an organization that truly cares for its patients, families, and employees.
Pediatric Oncology Nurse
Pediatric Oncology
Millington
In January 2023, I joined St. Jude through the Nurse Residency Program and started working in the Infusion Center. Here, we provide outpatient treatments like chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and injections. After 5 p.m., we also handle phone triage and housing clearances for new patients. It’s a busy role, but I love the variety and the chance to meet patients from all the clinics.
One of the first things I did at St. Jude was become a certified translator. As a Latina, I know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate a new country and language.
Being able to help Spanish-speaking families communicate with their care teams is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
St. Jude is more than a workplace—it’s a community. The support here is incredible, from mental health resources to small gestures like the “happy cart” that shows up on tough days. I feel valued and appreciated every day.
I’ve been in Memphis for over 20 years now, and it’s truly home. My family and I live in Millington near Shelby Forest, where we enjoy the peace and quiet while still being close to the city. We love exploring the trails, watching sunsets by the Mississippi River, and spending time outdoors with our kids.
Living in Memphis and working at St. Jude has given me a sense of purpose and belonging. I’m grateful to be part of such a diverse city and an organization that truly cares for its patients, families, and employees. My journey has been full of surprises, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What are some of your favorite activities in Memphis? We love to go to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park with all of the opportunities it offers. Living nearby makes it easy to get there regularly.
Where is your favorite place to eat in Memphis? Tekila Mexican Steak House is a great new place to eat.