By Blood Cancer United
When someone is living with a blood cancer diagnosis, they need support they can trust—clear, compassionate, and close at hand. That support includes a care team stacked with knowledgeable providers and professionals. People who understand that caring for others is both an art and a science.
Enter one of the most important people on that care team: the oncology social worker. Oncology social workers (or OSWs) are specifically licensed to counsel people with cancer and their loved ones. They specialize in helping people address the practical and emotional concerns that come up with a cancer diagnosis, including (but not limited to):
- Understanding a diagnosis and what treatment options are available
- Navigating the healthcare system and coordinating communication with a care team
- Finding financial assistance for out-of-pocket expenses
- Connecting patients and families with counseling, support groups, and other practical resources
- Supporting coping, adjustment, and quality of life through treatment and survivorship
Many of Blood Cancer United’s Information Specialists are oncology social workers. When patients and their families are looking for accurate, up-to-date information on blood cancer—and the compassionate guidance that must come with it—they can trust that the OSWs on our team are ready to help.
For patients and families, this kind of support can shape their entire experience. That’s why each year, Blood Cancer United recognizes oncology social workers providing outstanding care in their work at the Association of Oncology Social Workers (AOSW) annual conference. Among those honors are two awards focused on hematology/oncology, the field studying and treating blood cancers.
This year, two exceptional recipients were recognized.
Denise Velazquez, LCSW, recipient of the Hematology/Oncology Lifetime Achievement Award
For almost twenty years, Denise Velazquez has helped children with cancer and their families at Children’s Hospital at Montefiore. As part of her work, she also facilitates cancer survivor support groups, support and stress reduction groups for parents, and educational plans for cancer patients balancing school and treatment. She’s contributed to publications and panels for many oncology organizations including the Association of Pediatric Oncology Social Workers, Make-A-Wish®, and Blood Cancer United.
“Denise's dedication to blood cancer patients and their caregivers is profound. She delivers deeply compassionate care, offering a steady presence and meaningful support during moments of crisis, grief, and uncertainty. Families consistently describe her as a trusted advocate and source of strength. She also has exceptional knowledge of community and national resources and ensures families are connected to critical supports.” —Moriah Rabin, MD, Children’s Hospital at Montefiore
Erin Sieh, LISW, recipient of the Hematology/Oncology Social Worker of the Year Award
Erin Sieh has spent more than a decade supporting patients and families through cancer. In that time, she has provided outstanding, compassionate care to patients and families across the country. As the Care Coordination Chair at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, she helps patients and families move through the continuum of care according to their specific needs and advocates for them with their care teams. She’s also mentored new social workers and presented at various oncology events, including Blood Cancer United education programs in 2023 and 2024.
“There has not been a single day where Erin has wavered in her professionalism, demeanor, or dedication to our patients. She exemplifies the qualities of devotion to her patients through phases of living and dying, maximizing her professional competency, and sharing her wisdom with others.” — Eric Mou, MD, University of Iowa Inpatient
Behind every care plan is a person trying to make sense of what comes next. Oncology social workers help steady that path—offering clarity, connection, and care when it’s needed most. OSWs are crucial to cancer patients’ wellbeing from day one of a diagnosis.
This year’s AOSW award recipients represent the best of that work, and the quiet, consistent support that makes a lasting difference. From all of us at Blood Cancer United, thank you and congratulations to the remarkable award recipients! We are grateful for all you've done and continue to do for blood cancer patients and their families.
