Kristine first joined MSK in 2015 after a visit from MSK's recruitment team to her public health class at Rutgers University. She began as an office coordinator, inspired by the role’s impact as a first point of contact for patients and families. Her growing interest in healthcare led her to MSK’s Blood and Bone Marrow Stem Cell team. While her work in research was rewarding, Kristine recognized a growing desire to connect more directly and deeply with patients and families, and pursued a graduate degree at NYU. Now, as a member of the Social Work team, Kristine supports the Sarcoma and Melanoma services at MSK’s Rockefeller Outpatient Pavilion, pulling from her background to inform her work. “In Filipino culture, there’s a strong emphasis on collectivism. Decisions are made with the whole family in mind. That perspective really informs how I show up for patients and caregivers.” When asked what Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month means to her, Kristine shares: “Growing up, I had moments of feeling like my Filipino background was something that I needed to minimize. Now, I realize the deep richness and resilience of my heritage, and I carry that pride with me to work every day.” Leave a 👏 in the comments for Kristine! (fb)

Ellen, a 62-year-old retired kindergarten teacher from the Philadelphia area, is participating in the phase 3 trial of a therapy to treat low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC). The treatment, called avutometinib plus defactinib (Avmapki Fakzynja Co-pack), is the first drug for this rare and difficult-to-treat type of ovarian cancer and has been granted accelerated approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Since Ellen began taking the drugs in January 2025, her cancer has shrunk by 70%. Tests show her tumor marker has normalized, and she feels great. “When you’re first diagnosed with cancer, you just stop and think, OK, how many years do I have left, and what do I need to get done in those years?” Ellen says. “I never thought my life would be extended like this. I could not be any luckier." Learn more about this therapy: https://bit.ly/4djKoll (fb)