Meet Rosalie — A urologic cancer research operations lead who combines her passion for supportive care with a love of cats and photography.
Q: What is your role in health research?
A: I am a research operations lead with the Prostate Cancer Supportive Care Program and Bladder Cancer Supportive Care Program, established by Vancouver Prostate Centre and the M.H. Mohseni Institute of Urologic Sciences. In this role, I support clinical research, program evaluation and implementation initiatives focused on urologic cancer supportive care.
Q: What is your research area of interest, and what led you to that interest?
A: My research interest lies in supportive care, particularly for patients and families affected by prostate and bladder cancer. Supporting a family member through her cancer and palliative care journey gave me a deep appreciation for the impact that compassionate supportive care can have on patients and families. That experience continues to shape how I approach clinical research, care delivery and service implementation.
Q: What is the best part about your research job?
A: The best part of my job is designing research and evaluation projects that help us better understand how to improve access to care, enhance quality and strengthen the patient experience for people living with prostate and bladder cancer.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: I am inspired by the people I work with. I am fortunate to be surrounded by clinicians, researchers and staff who are deeply committed to providing the best possible care for patients and families. Their dedication motivates me to keep improving access to high-quality support care.
Q: What would you do if you were not in health research?
A: If I had not pursued a career in health research, I would probably be a cat photographer. I love animals and enjoy capturing their unique personalities on camera.
Q: What do you do for fun in your spare time?
A: I enjoy walking along the seawall, planning adventures with my cats and family, learning new photography skills and salsa dancing. I also host monthly community events, which have become one of my favourite ways to bring people together, build connections and create spaces where everyone can support one another.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
A: I would revisit Lassen Volcanic National Park in California. The last time I visited, it was an active volcanic park filled with mountains, clear lakes, geothermal areas and lush green meadows. Although much of the park was damaged by a major wildfire a few years ago, I would like to explore its beauty again.
Q: What is your healthiest habit?
A: I make my bed every morning. It is a small part of my daily routine that helps me feel organized and grounded.
Q: What piece of advice would you give your younger self?
A: It is okay to make mistakes and go with the flow.
