Kathy Perko, RN, MS, PPCNP-BC, CHPPN, CPLC, CPON®, FPCN

Beaverton, OR

I started my nursing career 38 years ago working nights on a mixed unit that included pediatric oncology. I gravitated toward the children and families with serious illnesses and when I attended graduate school, spent time learning about hospice and palliative care as well as oncology. My favorite role as an advanced practice nurse is being a mentor. A colleague and I started our pediatric oncology local chapter in 2000 and I have held a number of positions locally and nationally. I volunteer at a local children's shelter and am a reader at a local grade school.