As National NP Week comes to an end, we have another spotlight to recognize extraordinary NP, Molly Hemenway, DNP, MS, AC/PC-CPNP! She specializes in pediatric neuro-oncology & treatment for tumors in the setting of neurofibromatosis.
Q: What inspired you to become an NP?
A: I’ve always loved medicine and children. I knew from a young age I wanted to work in pediatric health care but wasn’t sure exactly what role I would play. Through conversations, shadowing, and a lot of consideration I was lucky enough to go to school to become a pediatric NP.
Q: How did you hear about RRR, and how long have you been involved?
A: I first heard about RRR when Dr. Lia Gore came into our shared office and asked who wanted to go to camp. I quickly threw out my hand and responded “me!” I have been involved with camp since the start of the MAC prior to a name or location. Dreaming up an ideal camp, from the patients who most needed to be served by camp and the physical site, was one of the best experiences I’ve had in my career.
Q: How has volunteering at camp impacted your career?
A: I have been fortunate enough to volunteer at the very first week camp was held and each summer since then. It is truly a life giving, cup filling, resiliency boost for me each year. Seeing campers that I have known through their journey truly thrive, laugh, and just to be kids for a week is absolutely incredible. When we get back to the hospital, the bond with children who have been patients and campers is incredible. During a stressful visit, reminding a child of when they dunked their doctor, smeared shaving cream all over my face, or conquered the climbing tower helps build confidence, resiliency, and joy.
Q: What is your favorite part about camp?
A: My absolute favorite part of camp is seeing kids do more than they ever thought they could, laugh and play, and make friendships with other kids who “have to go to the hospital too much”.
