Meet the Care Team: Color’s Oncology Nurses

At Color’s Virtual Cancer Clinic, care goes beyond diagnosis and treatment—it’s about meeting patients where they are and supporting their unique journey.

Color’s Oncology Nurses are highly skilled registered nurses (RNs) with outpatient and inpatient oncology experience and advanced oncology-related certifications, such as Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN). They play a critical role in guiding patients through every stage of their cancer journey—from preparing for treatment to managing care and recovery. Color’s Oncology Nurses provide essential education about cancer diagnoses, treatments like chemotherapy, and the financial aspects of care. They also help coordinate referrals to specialists, assist with medical record management, and connect patients to vital resources like transportation, financial aid, and support programs.

In addition to clinical support, Color’s Oncology Nurses alleviate administrative and logistical burdens in coordination with Color’s Care Advocates by managing leave plans, facilitating return-to-work transitions, and recommending workplace accommodations. Together, they also offer one-on-one guidance to patients experiencing financial hardships, helping them navigate assistance programs, resolve medical billing issues, and make informed treatment decisions. As key members of the care team, Color’s Oncology Nurses ensure patients receive the personalized, dedicated support they need throughout their cancer journey, making care more accessible and less overwhelming.

We sat down with one of Color’s Oncology Nurses, Angela Knox, to ask her a few questions about herself and her role:

What led you to pursue a career in oncology nursing?

Becoming a nurse was always in my DNA. My mom, grandma, and aunt were all nurses, but as a kid, I was determined not to follow in their footsteps. That all changed when I was in middle school, and my grandpa was diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

My grandparents moved in with us so my mom could be my grandpa’s caregiver during his treatment. I saw firsthand how cancer impacted not only him, but my grandma, my mom, and our entire family. That experience changed everything for me. I realized I wanted to be part of helping others navigate something so life-changing.

I went into nursing with the goal of becoming a cancer nurse from day one. Even during my undergrad, I found opportunities to do cancer-related research, and for the past 14 years, oncology has been the focus of my nursing career. I even spent a couple of years in health IT, which has come in handy now that I’m working with Color’s Virtual Cancer Clinic.

What excites you most about working with Color’s Virtual Cancer Clinic?

I’ve always believed that patient care should meet people where they are. Cancer impacts your whole life, but traditional care models aren’t always flexible enough to fit into your life. That’s why I’m so passionate about Color’s approach to cancer care—it’s designed around what works best for patients.

Whether we’re helping patients get screened, or supporting them through a new diagnosis, treatment, or survivorship, we can connect in a way that’s convenient for them. Maybe it’s a video call, a phone chat, or a quick message. For patients in big cities with great cancer care, we’re another layer of support. For those in rural areas or underserved communities, we can help bridge access gaps and ensure they’re getting the care they need.

Color’s comprehensive approach really excites me, too. Cancer care isn’t just about treating the disease—it’s about helping patients with every part of the journey, and I’m so proud to be part of that.

How does your role help bridge the gap between clinical care and patient support?

In my role as a Color Oncology Nurse, I’m often the first point of contact for patients who are newly diagnosed with cancer. I handle intake calls, check where they’re at in their process, and help educate them on what’s next. I also act as a bridge—whether it’s connecting patients with our Color clinicians, working with their primary care teams, or looping in other resources.

I love that patients can choose how much or how little interaction they want with me – again, it’s about meeting people where they are. Some need constant support, while others prefer to check in periodically. I’m here to meet their needs—whether it’s helping with education, financial advocacy, or even return-to-work planning.

One of my favorite parts of the job is patient education. Cancer is overwhelming, and it’s so important that patients understand what’s happening and feel empowered to advocate for themselves. I also love connecting patients with Color’s broader resources, like nutritionists, genetic counselors, or even our financial support tools. 

What’s one thing you wish more people understood about cancer care?

Cancer isn’t just a medical diagnosis—it impacts every part of someone’s life. There’s the physical side, of course, but it also affects your finances, your relationships, and your mental and emotional health.

What I really want people to understand is that everyone’s cancer experience is unique. In the healthcare system, it’s easy to feel like just another number. But no two people experience cancer in the same way, and it’s okay to advocate for what you need.

That being said, while your experience is unique, you’re also not alone. Whatever emotions, reactions, or challenges you’re facing—others have been there, too. It’s all normal, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

This is such a fun question! I wanted to be practical at first, thinking about what I’d get the least sick of, but if I’m being honest, my favorite meal is pretty clear: a kale Caesar salad, spaghetti with red sauce, a glass of red wine, and a really good brownie for dessert. And, of course, a glass of water—hydration is key!