CONTACT US
(L-R) PanCAN Patient Services Sr. Case Manager Ericka Ramirez, PanCAN President and CEO Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA, and PanCAN supporter Lisa Kulok.
Another year of excellence at PanCAN.
The Carol Kulok Award for Compassion is given annually to a member of the PanCAN Patient Services who has gone above and beyond service to patients and caregivers.
This year, Patient Services Sr. Case Manager Ericka Ramirez was bestowed the honor, making her the fifth recipient of the award.
The award was established by Carol’s daughter, Lisa Kulok, who was also a PanCAN Board member. Carol passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2016. Before her passing, Carol loved to attend PanCAN PurpleStride with Lisa. Now, Lisa works tirelessly to improve outcomes for others affected by pancreatic cancer to honor her mom.
“My mom was a helper,” Lisa said. “And that’s exactly what Patient Services Case Managers do – help. I’m proud to honor my mom through this award and recognize the hard work done every day to get patients and caregivers the resources they need.”
Get to Know Ericka
PanCAN: Tell me a little about yourself and how you came to PanCAN.
Ericka: I am a Los Angeles native, and I am the eldest of three. Although I was born and raised in LA, I am a cold weather girl at heart. I found PanCAN by chance and honestly, I am a huge believer of “everything happens for a reason.” I was a temp at a school and was referred by the principal at the school to apply to PanCAN. Three years later here I am.
PanCAN: How did it feel to receive the Carol Kulok Award for Compassion?
Ericka: I was shocked! I work with amazing people and am inspired every day by them and my supervisors. Knowing they recommended me for the award is truly an honor and a testament to my dedication to our patients.
(L-R) PanCAN Patient Services Sr. Director Fatima Zelada-Arenas, Ericka and Patient Services Associate Director Alejandra Alvarez.
PanCAN: Lisa has said, “My mom found joy in the simplest of moments.” What parts of your job do you find the most joy in?
Ericka: I find joy in finding new resources and assistance for patients. I especially love sharing our Survivor and Caregiver Network to patients that were recently diagnosed or loved ones who want to learn more about what to expect as a caregiver from another caregiver’s point of view. There is so much joy in knowing that in a world where everything costs money, we can provide our services free of charge with the help of our generous donors.
PanCAN: Like Lisa’s mom Carol, you help people every day. Have you always been a helper?
Ericka: Absolutely! From the time I was eight years old (when my little sister was born) until adulthood as a teacher’s assistant and substitute teacher, I have always enjoyed helping others. As a Case Manager, I assist patients and their loved ones by providing them with the information and resources they need to navigate this difficult disease.
PanCAN: Can you tell me a story about a patient or caregiver you helped that has stuck with you?
Ericka: The patients that stick with me the most are the ones that have no one. No one to lean on. No one to turn to. No more to join them at their doctor’s appointments. I am humbled and inspired by their experiences because I am reminded every day of the important role we play. I have helped these patients connect with others as well as find transportation and financial assistance that will help them along the way.
PanCAN: What are some ways you show compassion to the patients and caregivers who contact you?
Ericka: Every day brings its own challenges. I try to show compassion to patients and caregivers by allowing them to vent and share their concerns. Our team is often their last or only resort to get information to help make informed decisions. I remind patients and their loved ones that it is okay to feel what they do.
PanCAN: How do you recharge when not working?
Ericka: With the help of my colleagues and family, I have learned to tap into my creative side to recharge after work. I have taken on coloring, sewing, journaling and running. Although I am still a novice with the activities I mentioned, they have helped me decompress and gain control of what matters most: making the most out of each day.
