Behind every Family navigating a cancer diagnosis is a dedicated care team working tirelessly to provide support, guidance, and hope. Today, we are honored to spotlight Evelyn Batista Sanchez, an oncology social worker at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, whose lifelong calling to social work continues to make a meaningful difference for patients and Families during some of their most challenging moments.

A Calling Discovered Early

For Evelyn, the path to social work began at just 16 years old. After having a social worker involved in her own life, she knew immediately that this was the field she wanted to be in. Since then, Evelyn has built a diverse and impactful career, working across child welfare, family intervention, pediatrics, adult and elderly care, psychiatry and mental health, individual and group counseling, and specialty care areas including OB/GYN, pediatrics, oncology, and mental health.

She shares that each population brings its own unique needs, and that being part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team – while navigating the realities and limitations of healthcare systems, economic barriers, and government resources – has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.

A Client-Centered Practice

At the core of Evelyn’s work is a client-based approach rooted in the understanding that no two individuals are the same, and neither are their needs. By meeting patients where they are, she ensures the care she provides is personalized, compassionate, and responsive to each Family’s situation.

Common Challenges Families Face

Evelyn frequently sees Families struggling with financial stress due to changes in health, along with emotional and educational needs as patients work to understand and take part in their medical treatment plans. These challenges can feel overwhelming, particularly during an already difficult and uncertain time.

The Most Rewarding and Most Difficult Parts of the Job

The most rewarding aspect of Evelyn’s work is seeing patients experience improved health or reach a sense of clarity regarding their health, life options, and personal choices. The hardest moments come when limited resources mean there are no available options—and she must be the one to share that reality with a patient or Family.

How Bringing Hope Home Supports Families

Evelyn has seen firsthand the impact Bringing Hope Home has on the Families she works with. “Bringing Hope Home provides hope that a program exists and truly understands the struggles patients are experiencing,” she shares. From helping prevent eviction to covering essential bills when no other options are available, the support offered brings real relief. Patients who receive assistance consistently express deep gratitude for the compassion and help they receive.

Caring for Herself While Caring for Others

To unwind and recharge, Evelyn leans on the support of her coworkers and family. She values collaboration with her care team – sharing experiences, searching for resources, and supporting one another. Evelyn also prioritizes self-care and intentional time away from work to care for herself and her family, knowing that balance is essential when working through complex and emotionally demanding cases.

Words That Inspire

Two phrases guide Evelyn in her work and in life:

  • “Time passes by—make the best of the time you have.”

  • “We are all touchable to life events. Be aware of what others are going through.”

We are incredibly grateful for social workers like Evelyn, whose compassion, dedication, and advocacy bring hope and stability to Families during their most vulnerable moments.