October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Moraine Park would like to extend a sincere thank you to those who devote their career to the fight against cancer.

We had the opportunity to speak with a couple of our alumni who work at the Agensian Cancer Center- here’s what they had to say:

Kelly Hagner- Nurse Practitioner

2006 MPTC Graduate-nursing

“Working at the cancer center is like no other job, I feel. Every single day you come to work you have the opportunity to make a difference in someone lives. Whether it be the lives of the patient or the family members. When cancer is diagnosed to a patient, it doesn’t just affect the patient. It affects everyone from spouses, to children, to mother and fathers. I have had the opportunity to cry with patients, laugh with patients and jump with joy with patients. Often people think that cancer is always such a negative thing, unfortunately that is incorrect. We have treated hundreds of people and saved their lives. We have helped patients live longer, and not be scared. We have held their hands and listened to their stories while supporting them. Every day is not guaranteed but with amazing staff we at the cancer center make the journey less scary. We treat everyone like family!”

Annice Klapperich, RN

2016 MPTC Graduate- nursing

” I work as an RN in Radiation Oncology at the Agnesian Cancer Center. At the cancer center, I work with an incredible team and technology to treat patients with various cancer diagnoses. Radiation Oncology is a fascinating field to work in and I am lucky to have an opportunity to learn something new everyday. However, the best part of my job is the opportunity to build relationships not only with the patients, but with their family as well. I hope to make a positive impact in my work and to make a difference in the lives of others, as the patients and their families have made such a difference in mine. ” 

Denise Schwoch, RN

2009 MPTC Graduate- nursing

“When I decided to become a nurse, oncology was always my motivation.  This is a tough field but I find it extremely rewarding. I love the relationships that develops with patients and their families during their most vulnerable time.  I am forever grateful to be a medical oncology infusion RN!”