Catherine Mitsuoka

Catherine has been a dear friend, trusted colleague, and an exceptional nurse. As we honour her retirement, we reflect on her incredible contributions to the nursing profession and the countless patients she dedicated her life to caring for and healing.

Catherine’s nursing journey began at UCSF Health in 1988, where she quickly became a pillar of the oncology nursing community. After a decade in the inpatient oncology unit, she transitioned to the outpatient infusion centre in 1998 and assumed the role of nurse manager in 2013. Over her remarkable 35-year career, Catherine’s unwavering dedication has left an indelible mark on her colleagues, her patients, and the profession of nursing.

At her core, Catherine is an oncology nurse. Her approach has always been rooted in putting the patient first. With dignity, respect, professionalism, and deep empathy, she has guided her patients through some of their most vulnerable moments. She also understands the immense demands placed on nurses, always supporting her colleagues on the frontlines with compassion and understanding. As one colleague perfectly put it, “Catherine’s success is simple: she cares about her people.”

Catherine leads with professionalism, grace, and a deep sense of purpose. Her ability to teach by example and provide wise counsel has inspired countless nurses and staff over the years. Nursing has been more than a career for Catherine—it’s part of her fabric. It’s as much a part of her identity as being a mother, wife, grandmother, and friend. Among her infusion centre family, she’s affectionately known as “Catherine the Great”—a fitting title for someone who has truly been the greatest nurse, leader, and person to all who have had the privilege of working with her.

One of Catherine’s hallmarks is the pin she wears alongside her name badge that reads, “What would Florence do?” As we bid her farewell and celebrate this next chapter of her life, we find ourselves asking, “What would Catherine do?” Her legacy will continue to guide us as we strive to follow the extraordinary example she has set.

Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement, Catherine. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.