Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators
A cancer diagnosis is often an overwhelming and frightening experience. Our Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators help guide patients by working to assist with entry into the cancer care system and identifying any barriers that may exist.
Our Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators establish and maintain communication between patients, families, physicians, and the healthcare system.
Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators can assist in many ways:
- Provide emotional support and information on what to expect
- Coordinate with the patient’s physician and other care providers to streamline care
- Help patients and families to understand their diagnosis and treatment options
- Coordinate appointments and tests to avoid delays to treatment
- Help patients and families access support systems and services
Our goal is to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes. Our Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators are here to help.
Nurse Navigators
Selena Baker, MSN, RN, OCN, CGRN
Nurse Navigator for Gastrointestinal Cancer
Selena Baker, MSN, RN, OCN, CGRN, is a nurse navigator at Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She coordinates care for gastrointestinal patients from diagnosis through survivorship, helping her patients understand their diagnosis and treatment plan, so they can make informed decisions about their care.
Selena earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from the University of Central Florida. She is a registered nurse and has worked with gastrointestinal patients at Orlando Health for more than 25 years.
Selena is certified as an oncology nurse (OCN) by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation and as a gastrointestinal registered nurse (CGRN) by the American Society of Gastroenterology Nursing Certification Corporation. Through her involvement with numerous community education events, she promotes gastrointestinal cancer prevention, detection, and awareness across Central Florida.
Originally from Virginia, Selena enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and cooking.
Email: [email protected]
Ann Bondi, BSN, RN, HN-BC, QTTP
Nurse Navigator for Gynecologic Cancers
Ann Bondi, BSN, RN, HN-BC, QTTP, is a nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. With more than 33 years of experience treating patients, Ann uses her knowledge and expertise to ensure that gynecologic cancer patients thoroughly understand their diagnoses and receive the best possible health outcomes as she coordinates their care.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) from the University of Central Florida in Orlando, where she was a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
Ann is a board-certified holistic nurse (HN-BC) with the American Holistic Nurses Association as well as a Qualified Therapeutic Touch Practitioner (QTTP).
She has been practicing Reiki for nearly two decades and has published research on how this gentle healing technique can be used to reduce pain and anxiety.
Email: [email protected]
Sarah A. Childs, BSN, RN, OCN
Nurse Navigator for Breast Cancer
Sarah A. Childs, BSN, RN, OCN, is a certified oncology care (OCN) nurse navigator at Orlando Health Cancer Institute and has cared for cancer patients at Orlando Health for nearly 20 years. While she streamlines care and provides emotional support, Sarah is dedicated to helping patients with breast cancer and their families understand their condition and treatment plan, so they can make informed decisions about their care.
Sarah earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Aspen University and an associate’s degree in nursing from Valencia Community College. She is a member of the local and national Oncology Nursing Society.
While spending time with her family and friends is a priority, Sarah also enjoys being active in nature and in the kitchen, traveling and reading.
Email: [email protected]
Kaamela Davis, RN
Nurse Navigator for Gastrointestinal Cancer
Kaamela Davis, RN, is a nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She coordinates care for patients with gastrointestinal cancers, assessing patient needs, identifying barriers to treatment, providing education and advocating for patients to receive the best quality care.
Kaamela received her associate degree in nursing from the Cambridge Institute of Allied Health in Altamonte Springs, Florida. She is licensed as a registered nurse in Florida and has worked in the healthcare field since 1997.
Email: [email protected]
Beth Ingle Emsley, MSN, AOCNP
Family Physicians Group Nurse Navigator
Beth Ingle Emsley, MSN, AOCNP, is a nurse navigator at Orlando Health Cancer Institute, and she is board certified as an advanced oncology nurse practitioner (AOCNP) by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. With more than 25 years of experience, Beth is skilled in coordinating appointments, care and services for patients of Florida Physicians Group during their treatment at the Cancer Center.
After receiving her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Auburn University in Alabama, Beth earned a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and completed post-graduate studies at the University of South Florida in Tampa.
She enjoys spending time with her husband and their college-age children. Other interests include traveling, reading, walking and being with her friends.
Email: [email protected]
Jovanna Figueroa, BSN,RN
Nurse Navigator for Thoracic Cancers
Jovanna Figueroa, BSN, RN, OCN, is a nurse navigator at Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She coordinates a multi-disciplinary team of medical professionals to provide the highest level of care for patients with complex lung cancer. Jovanna has cared for patients and helped guide them on their journey from diagnosis to survivorship since 2011. She became an oncology-certified nurse in 2019.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, she began her career with Orlando Health Cancer Institute as part of the medical oncology team.
Jovanna enjoys spending time with her husband, family and her dog, Coco, a Chihuahua-dachshund mix.
Email: [email protected]
Gabrielle Genao-Morales BSN, RN
Nurse Navigator for Head and Neck
Gabrielle Genao-Morales, BSN, RN, is an oncology nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute who coordinates care for patients with head and neck cancers. She is passionate about helping patients and their families understand their diagnosis and treatment options.
Gabrielle also offers emotional support, collaborates with the cancer care team and assists with access to support systems and services. She treats patients like they are family.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) from Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida, and is licensed as a registered nurse (RN) in Florida.
Outside of work, Gabrielle enjoys spending time with her husband, family and dog Maggie. She also is an avid Disney fan.
Email: [email protected]
Johneshia Good, RN, OCN
Nurse Navigator for Hematology and Breast Cancer
Johneshia Good is a certified oncology nurse at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She coordinates care for hematology and breast cancer patients and acts as their advocate throughout treatment.
Johneshia also educates patients and their families about their diagnosis and treatment options, collaborates with the care team and provides resources for support.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City and received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Milligan University, also in Tennessee.
Johneshia is certified as an oncology nurse (OCN) by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation and is licensed as a registered nurse (RN) in Florida.
Email: [email protected]
Karen M. Heron, MSN, RN
Nurse Navigator for Lung Cancer
Karen Heron, MSN, RN, is a nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She is dedicated to compassionately supporting complex lung cancer patients while coordinating a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals to provide the highest level of care.
Karen received her associate degree in nursing from Drexel University in Philadelphia. She continued her education with Grand Canyon University in Arizona, where she received a bachelor’s degree in nursing and her Master of Science in nursing (MSN) with a concentration in public health. She is a registered nurse (RN) and recently relocated from Philadelphia to Florida.
Outside of work, Karen enjoys spending time with her children, cooking, floral arranging, international travel and collecting shells during walks on the beach.
Email: [email protected]
Leila Marie Ip, BSN,RN
Proton Therapy Nurse Navigator
Leila Marie Ip, BSN, RN, is a certified nurse navigator with the Center for Proton Therapy at Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She coordinates care for patients from diagnosis through survivorship. Leila provides services and support for adults and children with a range of cancers, including lung, breast, prostate, and head and neck, plus benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spine.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the Universidad de Sta. Isabel in Naga City, Philippines, and has cared for oncology patients for more than a decade.
Leila is originally from the Philippines and immigrated to the United States in 2007. She enjoys spending time with her family and traveling and shopping.
Email: [email protected]
Ashlee Jones, RN
Nurse Navigator for Melanoma Sarcoma
Ashlee Jones, BSN, RN is a nurse navigator at Orlando Health Cancer Institute, where she coordinates care for patients with melanoma or sarcoma. She collaborates with a team of professionals to ensure positive patient outcomes and helps create individualized care plans for patients. While Ashlee streamlines care and provides emotional support, she is committed to helping patients with skin, soft tissue and bone cancers and their families understand their condition and treatment plan, so they can make informed decisions.
Ashlee earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating with honors. Her associate degree in nursing was completed at Brookhaven College School of Nursing in Farmers Branch, Texas.
Ashlee is certified in basic life support and pediatric advanced life support.
Email: [email protected]
Rene Megan, MSN, RN
Lung Nodule Nurse Navigator
Rene Megan, MSN, RN, is a nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute who specializes in screening for lung cancer and lung nodules.
Rene is passionate about preventing lung cancer and increasing awareness of lung cancer screening, and she works closely with community partners. She believes in educating, supporting and encouraging patients and their families on the importance of yearly screening and understanding all aspects of their care.
She earned a Master of Science in nursing (MSN) from Grand Canyon University in Tempe, Arizona, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Rene also is a registered nurse (RN) and a certified respiratory therapist. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, hiking, biking, Pilates and spending time with family.
Email: [email protected]
Selena Ratcliffe, BSN, RN, OCN
Nurse Navigator for Breast Cancer
Selena Ratcliffe, BSN, RN, ONC, is a board-certified oncology nurse navigator with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She has cancer-specific education and training to provide compassionate, quality care for patients with breast cancer. As patients progress through their cancer journey, she creates individualized care plans, collaborates with the care team, educates patients and their families about treatment, and connects them with supportive community resources.
Selena earned her associate degree in nursing from Keiser University in Orlando and her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Daytona State College in Daytona Beach. She is certified by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation.
Email: [email protected]
Xiomarra Sanchez, BSN, RN
Nurse Navigator for Head and Neck
Xiomarra Sanchez is an oncology nurse navigator with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She coordinates care for patients with head and neck cancers and acts as their advocate throughout treatment.
She also helps patients and their families understand their diagnosis and treatment options, provides resources for support, and collaborates with the cancer care team. Xiomarra treats patients with the same kindness and dedication as she would a family member.
A registered nurse (RN), Xiomarra earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) from Valencia College in Orlando, Florida, where she also received an associate degree. She is fluent in English and Spanish.
Outside of work, Xiomarra enjoys traveling and going to the beach with her family.
Email: [email protected]
Karen Schnaufer, BSN, RN, OCN
Nurse Navigator for Oncology
Karen Schnaufer is an oncology nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She values the personal relationships she builds with her breast, gastrointestinal and other cancer patients, knowing that she has made their lives easier in some way. Karen has a special interest in palliative care.
As a nurse navigator, Karen ensures patients and their families understand their diagnosis and treatment options. She provides emotional support, streamlines care, coordinates appointments and tests, and connects patients with support groups and other resources.
Karen is a registered nurse (RN) and earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) from Mansfield University in Mansfield, Pennsylvania. She is certified as an oncology nurse (OCN) by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation.
Outside of work, she enjoys participating in volunteer opportunities, boating, and spending time with her family.
Email: [email protected]
Maija Seymour, RN, OCN
Nurse Navigator for Hematology
Maija Seymour is a Hematology nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She is dedicated to delivering expert, compassionate care as she helps patients and their families understand their diagnosis and treatment options. Maija is very passionate about increasing awareness of hematology cancers.
Maija also acts as a liaison between patients and their cancer care team. She provides education, coordinates cancer treatment, streamlines care, and connects patients with community support services.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from South College in Knoxville, Tennessee, and is licensed as a registered nurse (RN) in Florida. She is an active member of The Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators.
In her spare time, she enjoys painting, traveling and spending time with her family and her dog.
Email: [email protected]
Aileen Sta Maria, RN, BSN, OCN
Oncology Nurse Navigator - Genitourinary
Aileen Sta Maria is a nurse navigator at Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She has worked in Central Florida since 2006 and with cancer patients at Orlando Health since 2012. Her experience includes evaluating patients and coordinating care with medical, surgical and radiation oncology teams. She also administers chemotherapy, addresses barriers to care and connects patients with resources.
Aileen earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) at the University of Manila in the Philippines.
Aileen is certified as an oncology nurse (OCN) by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, runDisney and Give Kids The World Village. Originally from the Philippines, she is fluent in English and Tagalog.
Email: [email protected]
Kelly Trulock, BSN, RN, OCN
Nurse Navigator for Breast Cancer
Kelly Trulock, BSN, RN, OCN, is a certified oncology nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. Breast cancer patients benefit from her knowledge and experience in caring for the special needs of cancer patients. She supports patients and their families by educating them about treatments, scheduling and streamlining appointments, and connecting them with community support services.
After earning her registered nurse diploma from St. Vincent Nursing School in Erie, Pennsylvania, Kelly received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Governor’s University in Salt Lake City, Utah. She is certified by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation and a member of the Academy of Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators.
Email: [email protected]
Michael Velasquez, RN
Nurse Navigator for Colorectal Cancer
Michael Velasquez is an oncology nurse navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. He educates colorectal cancer patients and their families about diagnosis and treatment options and acts as a liaison between them and their cancer care team.
Michael also coordinates appointments and tests, provides emotional support, and helps patients and their families find support systems and services. His care philosophy is to be sympathetic, empathetic, kind and positive throughout treatment.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Jacksonville University in Florida and received his associate degree in registered nursing from the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls. Michael is licensed as a registered nurse (RN) in Florida and in basic life support and advanced cardiac life support.
Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, running and hiking. Michael is fluent in English and Spanish.
Email: [email protected]
Patient Navigators
Ashlie Ryan Jones, BA
Patient Navigator
Ashlie Jones is a patient navigator at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. She supports cancer patients by coordinating care as quickly as possible, reducing the time from diagnosis to treatment. Ashlie also participates in community outreach events about cancer prevention and screenings and helps the institute with special projects.
She received an associate degree in health services administration from Valencia College in Orlando and a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from California State University in Sacramento.
Ashlie prides herself on her communication, organization and decision-making skills. She’s an alumna of the Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity.
Email: [email protected]