Loss Into Legacy for Breast Cancer Survivors

It is with great enthusiasm that we nominate Catina Pitzen for the 2026 Extraordinary Healer Award, presented by CURE and Oncology Nursing News. Catina exemplifies compassion, expertise and leadership in the oncology community, making a profound difference in the lives of patients and colleagues alike.

Professional Excellence and Advocacy

As an oncology nurse and pharmaceutical professional, Catina is dedicated to advancing cancer treatment and patient care. She works relentlessly to advocate for research and development to improve outcomes for those affected by cancer. Her commitment extends beyond science; she is deeply invested in ensuring that patients receive timely and essential care, demonstrating an investment in their well-being.

Champion of Diversity and Inclusion

Catina leads by example, fostering an environment where every individual is respected and uplifted. Her ability to connect with people from all backgrounds, making them feel heard and understood, highlights her exceptional emotional intelligence and empathy.

Community Leadership: Columbus P.ink Day

In her community, Catina is a beacon of compassion and leadership. She leads the annual Columbus P.ink Day, an event that celebrates cancer survivors and brings together patients, health care providers and families for a day of healing and empowerment. P.ink connects breast cancer survivors with tattoo artists to create meaningful artwork over surgical scars.

Her involvement in P.ink began through her friend Dave. He started the Columbus, Ohio, chapter because he wanted these women to have another option than living with scars. Dave died of prostate cancer in 2024, with Catina as his oncology nurse and best friend. After his death, Catina assumed leadership of the chapter to honor his legacy. She pours her heart into this event, ensuring every participant feels seen, valued and supported.

We also volunteer at the P.ink event, offering time and compassion. We have watched Catina help up to five women each year blossom from a tightly wound knot into an amazing new chapter of their lives. In 2025, she was able to coordinate for eight women to receive their own artwork. Many of these women thought their surgery scars would forever remind them of their cancer, but instead, they now have incredible and meaningful images that show healing, beauty and love.

Her connection with each woman who participates in P.ink starts long before the actual day. She speaks with them before the event, learning about their journey and the artwork they have chosen to help them heal. Catina hears each woman's story and helps her open up and take back the power that cancer has taken from her. She listens attentively, helping each participant regain confidence and reclaim her sense of self.

Lasting Impact and Inspiration

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Catina inspires and nurtures those around her. She creates an atmosphere of care and understanding in every space she occupies, whether at work, in the oncology community or in her personal life. Her holistic approach to healing and unwavering dedication make her an ideal candidate for the Extraordinary Healer Award.

Conclusion

Catina Pitzen embodies the qualities this award seeks to honor: passion, dedication, compassion and a relentless commitment to improving the lives of those affected by cancer. Her future contributions to oncology nursing will continue to inspire and transform lives, and it is with great honor that we nominate her for the 2026 Extraordinary Healer Award.

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