Gilda’s Club to honor Wilmot Cancer Center’s Top Nurse Sept. 25

Patti Murray, R.N., B.S.N., M.S., associate director for cancer services at the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, will be honored by Gilda’s Club of Rochester on Saturday, Sept. 25.

She will receive the Champ Award for outstanding service to people with cancer in the Rochester area during Gilda’s Gala at George Eastman House.

“Patti Murray is a wonderful example of outstanding nursing and we all benefit from her experience, compassion and dedication,” says Beverly Brooks, executive director of Gilda’s Club.

As interim associate director for cancer nursing services at the Wilmot Cancer Center, Murray leads by example, always attune to the evolving needs of patients and their families.

People hospitalized with cancer are very sick or facing their final days. They are emotionally charged, exhausting times. Under Murray’s tutelage, the Wilmot Cancer Center’s oncology nursing staff very capably calms, comforts and supports them. She provides valuable emotional care -- and hugs -- which can cure a host of ailments when given in proper doses.

A graduate of University of Rochester School of Nursing, she began her career as staff nurse at Strong Memorial Hospital and because of her style and mentorship, she has steadily moved up the leadership ranks. 

A 24-year veteran nurse, Murray is often praised for her uncanny ability to meet the clinical demands of hospitalized cancer patients and their families, while juggling the challenges of retaining nurses and improving systems.

To attend the event, which begins with the awards ceremony at 5:30 p.m., call Gilda’s Club at 423-9700. Tickets are $175 per person.