Compassion is the nature of cancer care. This is what led Alexis Lamie,  hematology oncology nurse practitioner, to Beacon. “I started my career at Beacon as a patient care assistant. When I walked through the hallways as a student, I was always regarded with a smile or friendly gesture,” she says. That kindness is even more pronounced in oncology, which helped her select her specialty. “All oncology  professionals lead with compassion, not only with their patients, but with their peers as well, which makes them great coworkers.”

Before pursuing her advanced degree, Alexis worked as a registered nurse on Beacon’s Memorial Hematology and Oncology Unit. She then earned her master’s degree in nursing at Indiana University South Bend. Now, as a nurse practitioner, she diagnoses, assesses and treats various medical conditions. She does this in collaboration with physicians, partnering to provide the best care for cancer patients.

“My number one goal is to always lead with compassion,” she says. “I want to treat the patient as I would want my family member to be treated. The quality of care I provide is really important to me.”

While the most common question she hears is how she deals with sad cases, Alexis stays optimistic and helps her patients find hope and joy in the smallest things. “I hope that I’ve taught my patients to seek out the best in each day, even if it is as simple as a sunset or hearing a funny story.”

She has also learned from her patients. “They’ve taught me to be just as kind to myself as I can be to them, because if I am not caring for myself, I cannot properly care for them.”

In Her Own Words
Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? I am very influenced by and strive to be a woman as selfless as my mother. She is constantly thinking of others.

What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I worked at the snack stand at a military base family pool. I enjoyed every minute of it and ate way too many Munchies Chip Mixes and Sour Straws.

What were your best/worst subjects in school growing up? Art class was my worst subject. My friend’s art always looked amazing, whereas mine was supremely lackluster. My best subjects were math and science.

If you could sit down to dinner with anyone, alive or deceased, who would it be and why? Honestly, my grandpa Ron, who passed away during COVID times in an extended-care facility.

What are your hobbies, interests? I love the Peloton bike! I received it during the dreaded time of quarantine, and it was such a good stress relief, then and now. The instructors are so motivating and fun. My favorite phrase is, “Try it the way you prescribe it.” That one hits home.  I also love to read, watch movies and television shows, and spend time with my family and close friends.