Kristin E. Markel, APRN

For Kristin Markel, AGACNP-BC, AOCNP, caring for cancer patients is deeply personal.

“I lost my grandma to cancer in the winter of 2005 before starting my oncology rotation in nursing school,” said Markel, who completed her undergraduate work at Nebraska Methodist College. “That experience led me to develop a passion for caring for cancer patients.”

Now a nurse practitioner in the Breast Care Center at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center, she strives to empower patients throughout their journeys. She proudly says that she’s been referred to as a mix of a cheerleader and drill sergeant.

“To me, that’s a compliment, because that’s how I approach care,” she said. “I will fight for you, but I’ll also use education and motivation to help you improve your health. Once you become one of my patients, you’re my family, and I’ll do anything and everything I can to provide the best care possible.”

Markel said she treasures countless moments where patients or coworkers made an impact on her, but her favorite part of her work is “knowing that I’m making a difference in someone’s life.”

“If I can make just one person’s cancer journey less difficult, allow the patient to breathe a little easier and have confidence in their health care team, then I know I’m doing my job.”

Outside of work, Markel can be found spending time with her family at her children’s sporting events, on camping trips or gathering for dinner. She also enjoys reading, going to the movies and listening to music from all genres, with hard rock being her favorite.