Anna Mendes

Host Jess Fidalgo sits down with Anna Mendes, Rock Row Infusion Nurse Supervisor at New England Cancer Specialists (NECS), to discuss her two decades in oncology. Anna shares personal stories—including her father’s successful lymphoma treatment at NECS, which inspired her to pursue nursing and connect with people. She also details the critical role of infusion nursing, which requires clinical skill and high-level critical thinking to manage a wide array of treatment—from chemotherapy and immunotherapy to infusions for autoimmune disorders and chronic migraines. Anna highlights the profound changes she’s witnessed, including the shift toward personalized medicine and quick-injection treatments, and explains how her team fosters deep human connection and support for patients during their journeys. Open, honest, and at times both funny and vulnerable, Anna walks us through what life is like giving care.