Schae Richards, community editor
Richmond resident Julie Bennett is an oncology nurse who is committed to seeing her patients through what can be a journey of uncertainty.
Julie works as an oncology nurse navigator for the Cancer Center at Logan Regional Hospital. Prior to that, she worked at the Cache Valley Cancer Center with Dr. Ali-Ben Jacob for 12 years.
She said helping people gives her joy, and that this passion of hers is what inspired her to get into healthcare.
“It is very rewarding to make a difference in people’s lives,” she said.
Julie said getting to know her patients is the best part about her job. In fact, she has built relationships with many of her patients.
“We get to know the patient, as well as their family and friends,” she said. “Many strong relationships are built. I had a patient name her baby after me. That is an honor. Patients put a lot of trust in their caregivers, and it is a privilege to help in their care.”
Julie said she also loves watching the staff put the patients first.
“It is not always what you know, but how you treat the patient that is important,” she said. “I always tell patients that with oncology, it takes a village, and we are their village.”
Lance Frazier, a communication specialist at Logan Regional Hospital, said Julie always goes the extra mile when taking care of her patients.
“She is the person who meets with patients when they arrive and helps them through every step of their care,” he said. “She is known for spending her own money to provide treats for patients or items for children of patients, remembering their birthdays, and just in general, being a super-caring and invested caregiver.”
Julie said it’s the little things that make a big difference when helping patients through their journey.
“Our patients are amazing and very courageous,” she said. “It’s the little things—like calling them by their first name, surprising them with their favorite snack, calling to check on them after they receive their treatment, remembering a special occasion—that turn into the big things.”
She said her main priority is always to give the best care to her patients.
“We let the patient know that as their navigator we are here to help them throughout their diagnosis by helping schedule additional testing or appointments, provide an overview of Intermountain Cancer services, and offer emotional and educational support,” she said. “We want them to know that they have a contact person.”
Julie grew up in Millville and now calls Richmond home after 24 years.
In her spare time, she enjoys snorkeling, riding ATV’s, and spending time with her family.
She and her husband, Shawn, have two sons: Garyn, 25, and Gunnar, 22.
