Behind every Family navigating a cancer diagnosis is a compassionate advocate helping guide the way. We’re honored to spotlight Dawn Clancy, a dedicated oncology social worker who has spent more than 25 years walking alongside Families through some of life’s most challenging moments. From addressing emotional distress to helping meet urgent basic needs like food and housing, her work reflects both deep professional expertise and heartfelt commitment to her community. We’re grateful to share Dawn’s story and the perspective she brings to caring for Families facing cancer.
Can you share a little about yourself?
Hello! I live in Kennett Square, PA with my husband-Mike & my two sons-Drew (17) & Jack (12). I enjoy being a football (Drew) & band (Jack) Mom for my boys! I also love to hike year-round & I adore the beach, particularly the Jersey Shore. I teach second grade religious education at my church and enjoy being involved in my faith community. I also enjoy being involved with programs and organizations that address the most pertinent needs within the community: Kennett Area Community Service, St Agnes Day Room, SHiNE , Live Like Brent & of course-Bringing Hope Home!
Did you always know you wanted to be a Social Worker? How many years have you worked in Oncology?
Funny Story: As a little girl, I aspired to become a Solid Gold Dancer, as I took dance lessons for over 13 yrs. I still enjoy dancing whenever I have the opportunity! LOL!
I initially went to college to become an elementary school teacher & realized after my Junior year that I wanted to take a different path. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology and later went on to pursue my master’s in social work. I have been a social worker for over 25 years, and I have worked directly & indirectly in oncology throughout my entire career. I worked as an oncology social worker at Cooper-MD Anderson as well as the VA Hospital in Elsmere, DE & my current site-Penn Medicine Abramson Cancer Center of Chester County. I have also worked in Case Management, Hospice, Home Care & Bereavement. I have been in my current role for five years this month (March 2026).
What are some of the most common issues families face?
The most common issues families face are emotional distress and financial challenges. It is practically impossible to endure a cancer diagnosis without experiencing some type of emotional response such as grief, anger, frustration, or disappointment. Many families also experience some type of financial difficulty as they struggle to meet the financial demands of their treatment as well as maintain their work schedule/salary. Recently, I have seen a rise in patients/families struggling with food & housing insecurity. These basic need challenges create an even greater burden to cancer patients as they attempt to begin their oncology care & treatment journey!
Are there any key trends you are seeing in patient navigation or advocacy you think are important to share?
I have recently encountered an increase in food & housing insecurity with the cutting of numerous programs throughout my county, the state & the country. This is especially detrimental to patients & families facing a cancer diagnosis & treatment! Thankfully, many programs & individuals have risen to help meet these great needs! I have discovered multiple new programs & resources that have helped me to support the most vulnerable of my patient population!
What is the best part of your job? The hardest?
The best part of my job is sharing tools & resources with my patients/families and witnessing them empower themselves & persevere through one of the most challenging times of their lives-their battle with cancer. I also greatly appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with my fellow oncology social workers, nurses & physicians to best serve the vast needs of our patients & families!
How have you seen BHH help the families you work with?
I have witnessed BHH provide immense financial support to many of my patients over the years. The compassionate generosity of this agency has provided concrete financial assistance to my patients/families, while also instilling hope and joy during a time of great distress!
I am most grateful to BHH for ALL they have done for my patients & families!!
What do you do to relax and unwind?
I relax and unwind by hiking, reading, cooking, listening to music, meditating & praying.
Is there a quote or phrase that inspires you?
I have two quotes that I inspire me by the same person: Mother/Saint Teresa of Calcutta,
“Do Small Things with Great Love” and “Spread Love Wherever You Go; Let No One Ever Come to You Without Leaving Happier”.