World Health Worker Week: Celebrating Our Nurse Navigators

April marks World Health Worker Week, a time to recognise the dedication and resilience of health workers around the world. At Cancer Research Malaysia, it’s an opportunity to shine a light on our nurse navigators — the people who quietly guide patients through their cancer journey. From helping patients understand treatment options to offering emotional support and practical guidance, they are a steady presence when it’s needed most. Their work may happen behind the scenes, but it is vital, deeply human, and life-changing for the patients and families they serve.

Yannest Christy Yanam, Community Navigator in Sabah

I became a community navigator because I wanted my work to matter and to help ease someone’s burden. I may not be able to solve every problem, but I work closely with my colleagues, patients and their families to find ways forward, especially for those who live alone, are single parents, or need emotional and mental support. One moment I will never forget was when a patient thanked me simply for helping her apply for financial aid and staying with her until her ride arrived. It reminded me that even small acts, like listening and being present, can make someone feel seen and valued. Despite the challenges, this work is meaningful because I get to support patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives and it has taught me the importance of improving my communication and building stronger support networks.

Stency Merinda Joseph Ngadan, Community Navigator in Sarawak

Being a nurse navigator means walking closely with patients through every stage of their cancer journey, from their first point of contact to treatment, follow-up and survivorship. Nursing school taught me communication and emotional support, but the reality of this role is something you truly learn along the way. Some skills come naturally, others take time and there are days when the work feels heavy. I used to struggle with setting boundaries, feeling guilty for taking care of myself. Over time, I’ve learned to reflect and move forward without being too hard on myself. Of course, there are difficult moments, especially when patients pause or stop treatment as they come to terms with their diagnosis. We may not always have the answers, but we never ever walk away. And then there are days when a patient comes back just to say thank you or offer a hug. Small moments that quietly remind me why this work matters.

Felicia Got, Community Navigator in Sarawak

Working with breast cancer patients has shown me the power of empathy and simply being present when life feels overwhelming. I’ll never forget my first patient. A widowed mother of two, recently diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer, determined to continue treatment for her children. I guided her through the healthcare system, helped with financial aid and just listened. Moments like these remind me that support isn’t always about big interventions. Sometimes it’s about being there, offering guidance and helping patients feel heard. I’ve also learned how myths and stigma around cancer affect decisions, and how important clear, compassionate information is. This work has strengthened my empathy, patience, and ability to truly listen, showing me that even small actions can help someone regain hope.

Nurul Akmal, Nurse Navigator in Kelantan

Being a nurse navigator is different because it’s not just about treating a condition. It’s about walking beside someone through one of the hardest journeys of their life. Unlike other nursing roles, where interactions can be brief and task-focused, I build long-term relationships with patients, guiding them from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. It’s about coordination, advocacy and trust. To do this well, nurses more than clinical skills but emotional support and clear boundaries. Some days I’m scheduling tests or appointments, other days I’m simply listening. But the moments that matter most are when patients feel truly heard and supported, that connection makes every challenge worth it.

Nur Adibah, Nurse Navigator in Klang

I became a community navigator because I want patients to access the best possible treatment without feeling burdened or anxious. I want them to know we’re here to support them every step of the way. One case that touched me was an elderly widow living alone. She was overwhelmed by her cancer diagnosis, with no children or caregivers to help. Her nieces and nephews were busy with their own lives, so we supported her throughout her treatment journey. Many people still believe alternative treatments can cure cancer or that breast cancer always ends in death. Through this work, I’ve learned that life has its ups and downs, but with support, we can find our way and keep going.