Super SHEro - Kathryn LePore Passero, RN, BSN '06

Kathryn LePore Passero RN, BSN, and member of the MSDA Class of 2006, works in the outpatient pediatric clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City where she administers chemotherapy and supportive care to kids with cancer. Kathryn quickly dispels a common misperception people have about her job, “So many people assume my job must be sad but it is honestly a happy place. Our staff goes above and beyond to make the experience for our patients and their families a positive one. Kids are resilient and prove to me every day that they are warriors.”

At the start of COVID19, Kathryn was extremely nervous for her patients since they are immunocompromised, but her unit has taken every measure to make sure their patients remained safe from the beginning. “These kids have once again proven to be the toughest of the tough and have battled COVID19 in stride. Most of our positive COVID19 pediatric patients have recovered without major complications,” Kathryn noted. She explains that while their entire workflow has changed, “we have continued to provide life saving treatments to our patients who do not have the luxury of staying home and delaying treatment.”

Of what she is feeling and experiencing as a professional in healthcare during the COVID19 crisis, Kathryn shared, “I chose to be a nurse and could not be happier with that choice. While I never imagined I would be a nurse during a pandemic, I still have no doubt that this is the career for me. It has been challenging and scary but my patients need me and I am honored to continue to take care of them.” Her concern continues beyond her work hours, but so does her bravery and professionalism. “I also have a 7-month old baby at home and have constant fear of bringing the virus home to him. But, this is my job and I know I can be a nurse and a mom safely and effectively with the right precautions.” Thank you, Kathryn, for your bravery and for continuing to provide compassionate and uplifting care to your brave warrior patients!