For families facing cancer, interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for ensuring that people receive care addressing their physical, emotional, and psychological needs, and Heidi Jakob is a master collaborator. With decades of experience caring for people, Heidi has developed a deep understanding of the complex and varied needs of oncology patients. Heidi celebrates big and small events in her patients’ care. Her desire to spread the simple joys of life is contagious, and her entire department has been supportive of her creativity and desire to celebrate the patients. She has been known to transform the chemotherapy infusion room into a jungle cruise adventure on Halloween.

Heidi is always willing to lend an ear or offer words of encouragement to her colleagues and communicate difficult news to families. She creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere in the often challenging world of caring for cancer. Her genuine concern for others is infectious and inspires those around her in their own work. Heidi is generous in sharing her nursing knowledge with her colleagues, and she helps foster an environment where new ideas are welcomed and valued.