Sarah Gabriel Recognized as Social Worker of the Year by Bringing Hope Home

Navigating life after a cancer diagnosis can be challenging, but caregivers at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute work tirelessly to alleviate patient concerns.

Among those caregivers is oncology social worker Sarah Gabriel, LMSW, recognized for assisting cancer patients with financial needs. These concerns may include utility bills, insurance issues, food accessibility and transportation. She helps answer questions and connect patients with vital community resources.

“Being able to support patients beyond their medical diagnosis is so important so they can focus on their health,” said Gabriel, who has been in her role since 2018. “It inspires me to see how resilient they are, and I hope that I can, at the least, provide a little bit of hope in the midst of their cancer journey.”

Gabriel has found a consistent, reliable partner in Bringing Hope Home, a non-profit that helps provide financial assistance to local cancer patients. She has referred over 115 families to their Light of Hope Family Program, which contributes funds to pay for household bills. Gabriel’s inspirational work earned her recognition as Bringing Hope Home’s Social Worker of the Year.

“Sarah’s genuine compassion and warmth shine through in every interaction she has with the Bringing Hope Home team,” said Rachael Murphy, Family & Medical Professional Manager at Bringing Hope Home at the award ceremony. “Her colleagues speak of her soothing presence and exceptional listening skills, which help the families she supports feel immediately at ease.”

Gabriel attributes much of her success in helping patients to her colleagues at the Graham Cancer Center. Together, by partnering with Bringing Hope Home, 255 families have received assistance.

“I could not do my job without the amazing team of co-workers I work with every day in the Cancer Care Navigation and Management Department,” Gabriel said. “They have been wonderful in supporting me and our patients.”

The Cancer Care Navigation team was excited to join Gabriel as she received her award. Karen Sites, director of case management, has seen firsthand the impact Gabriel has had on patients and their families. “We are incredibly proud of Sarah being recognized as Social Worker of the Year by Bringing Hope Home," said Sites. "This honor reflects not only her exceptional skill and dedication, but also the compassion and commitment she brings to every individual and family she serves."