It’s Nurses Week!
We’re shining the spotlight on our amazing Radiology nurses during National Nurses Week, Tuesday, May 6 through Monday, May 12. Our nurses care for patients with compassion, strength, and world class expertise. They bring professionalism and teamwork to UCSF every single day and we appreciate them as trusted colleagues, patient advocates, and caregivers.
In their own words, our nurses share what brings inspiration, joy, and meaning to their vital roles. Here are a few of their stories.
Daniel Cobb, Nurse
What inspired you to become a nurse, and what about nursing is most meaningful to you?
When I was attending the University of Oregon, I shadowed a physical therapist who brought me to the intensive care unit (ICU) at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eugene, Oregon. I was amazed seeing nurses taking care of really sick patients. I talked to several nurses that day and by my second visit I knew that I wanted to be a nurse.
After nursing school I started in the CVICU. Two years later, I transferred to a Level I Trauma-Neuro ICU in Portland, Oregon. I ended up working in the ICU for 16 years after nursing school and as a Critical Care Flight Transport Nurse.
Following my brother’s move to the Bay Area, I secured a position in the interventional radiology department at UCSF. That was nearly 8 years ago! I am still learning and feel lucky to work at UCSF, where I get the opportunity to work with patients at one of the best hospitals in the United States. I think genetics, advanced imaging, and interventional radiology are the future of medicine.
On challenging days I still I have the same feeling I had a long time ago. I am grateful that as a nurse I have the opportunity to have a positive impact on a complete stranger, who may be going through one of the most difficult times in their life.
Alexander Jarencio, CNII - Charge Nurse/Lead, UCSF Mount Zion Radiology
Can you share a particularly memorable moment from your nursing career?
One of the most beautiful moments in my career as a nurse that I'll never forget was when I was taking care of a patient in the cardiovascular ICU. The patient’s prognosis was not good. I built a strong rapport with the patient and their family, and I coordinated a wedding ceremony for that patient's granddaughter. My team was absolutely amazing! We baked a cake, did the patient's hair, makeup and nails, and decorated the room. We had a beautiful ceremony and she was so thankful to see her grandchild get married before she passed away.
Kelli Kaliban, RN, BSN, UCSF Bakar Precision Cancer Center
What inspired you to become a nurse?
When I was 17, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and that experience had a huge impact on me. I spent a lot of time in hospitals and saw firsthand the difference a good nurse can make. The nurses who cared for me weren’t just doing their jobs. They were kind, supportive, and really helped me through a tough time.
That experience stuck with me and made me realize I wanted to be that person for someone else. Becoming a nurse felt like the right path — one where I could use what I went through to help and support others in their own health journeys.
Aaron Ly, Nurse
What inspired you to become a nurse, and what keeps you passionate, even on challenging days?
I graduated in 2013 from nursing school and what inspired me to become a nurse comes from my time working as an EMT. I love saving lives knowing I made a difference in the world. This led me to become involved in the healthcare industry with experience in ICU/post-anesthesia care and now radiology.
Patients keep me passionate about nursing! I learn so much from each patient and they constantly remind me to stay humble with empathy, compassion, and an open mind.
Ellen Makela, Nurse
What about nursing is most meaningful to you?
My favorite aspect of nursing is the ability to make a positive impact on someone's life. I interact with people who are going through life threatening illness. The opportunity to provide them with excellent medical care and support is very rewarding. I feel that what I do makes a difference. I also love working with our Fellows — watching their confidence grow as the months pass is always amazing.
Nelson Mercado, Clinical Nurse 2
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My mother inspired me to become a nurse. We lived in a remote place near Taal Volcano (Philippines) where it's difficult to get a medical treatment. She used to suture minor cuts, fix a broken bones and help deliver babies for all the members of our family. I wanted to do the same.