When Lynn Dowling learned she had invasive ductal carcinoma, Nurse Navigator, Cindi Cantril, could offer knowledgeable encouragement in spite of the frightening diagnosis.

"I could tell she knew what she was talking about," Dowling says. "She told me that although my pathology report showed I had cancer cells, we caught the cancer early, it’s small, and it’s completely curable. From that moment on, I had no fear. Cindi helped me by setting the tone of optimism and by showing me I was not alone," Dowling says. "She was clearly a patient advocate for me, and I knew she would help me through it. I’m amazed that we went without nurse navigators in the past, and that some hospitals do without them now." More on Dowling's story...

A History
Nearly 20 years ago, a visionary physician at Harlem Hospital in New York saw the need for a higher level of care for cancer patients with social and financial limitations. He knew a cancer diagnosis could be confusing and painful enough without the added strain of moving through the healthcare system alone. So, in 1990, Dr. Harold Freeman developed the first Patient Navigator Program.

Patients who had the benefit of a Navigator helping them through their treatment were better able to focus on healing. Importantly, they were assured that they were not alone, and that an advocate was there to see them through to recovery.

A Guiding Light in Marin
Today we are fortunate to have an Oncology Certified Nurse at the Marin Cancer Institute’s Breast Health Program. Cindi Cantril, RN, OCN, has 30 years experience in working with breast cancer patients. As our Breast Care Coordinator and Nurse Navigator, she helped develop our Breast Health Program, including its special emphasis on patient support services. The support and guidance of Cindi is available to every breast cancer patient at MCI as well as their families.

Your Nurse Navigator Will:

• Facilitate your recovery and rehabilitation planning - before, during, and after treatment
  
• Help you make informed decisions about your care, serving as your educator, advocate, and guide
  
• Coordinate your appointments with medical team members and facilitate your communications with physicians
  
• Teach you and your family members to manage side effects
  
• Provide you and your family with support services - including emotional support

Your Nurse Navigator is a liaison between you, your doctors, and your family, knowing first hand that your well being and peace of mind are as important as your treatment.

Dealing with all the new emotions and decisions surrounding your diagnosis can be overwhelming. Understanding this, your personal Nurse Navigator is available on a one-on-one basis to help explain your options or just to listen.

To learn more about the Marin Cancer Institute’s Breast Health Program, located at 1350 S. Eliseo Dr., Greenbrae, please call Breast Care Coordinator Cindi Cantril, RN, OCN, at (415) 925-7864. Map and Directions.