Each month, Azra AI recognizes an individual who exemplifies outstanding dedication and impact in the oncology field as an Oncology Hero. This month, Azra AI is proud to honor not just one, but two Heroes going above and beyond for the patients they serve!
Meet Stacey Rodgers and Jill Jennings MSN, RN, whose partnership is transforming lung cancer care at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center.
A Shared Calling in Oncology Care
For both Stacey and Jill, oncology isn’t just a career, it’s a calling.
- Stacey Rodgers, the Oncology Screening Program Coordinator, has been with Banner MD Anderson for over 12 years. Inspired by a lifelong instinct to care for others, she now leads patients through the lung cancer screening process with compassion and dedication.
- Jill Jennings, a registered nurse with 14 years of experience, discovered her passion for oncology early in her career. Today, she finds fulfillment in serving patients through proactive cancer screenings and patient navigation.
Making an Impact Through Empathy and Innovation
Together, Stacey and Jill are breaking down barriers that often prevent patients from seeking timely screenings—fear, stigma, and misconceptions about smoking-related cancers. Stacey recalls one particularly moving moment when a fearful patient nearly canceled her screening. Through Stacey’s empathy and reassurance, the patient went forward with the test, ultimately receiving peace of mind with a clear result.
Meanwhile, Jill emphasizes the quiet but powerful impact of technology and process improvement. By leveraging the Azra AI platform, Jill has seen tangible outcomes: more accurate follow-up recommendations, fewer patients lost to prolonged follow-ups, and overall stronger patient support.
Patient-Centered, Every Step of the Way
Both Stacey and Jill treat every patient as they would a family member, ensuring no one feels alone in their journey. Stacey shared how her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis deepened her commitment to delivering exceptional care, while Jill noted that staying grounded in her own wellness helps her show up fully for patients each day.
Their message to patients:
- Stacey: “Never stop fighting. Be your own advocate and let your loved ones support you.”
- Jill: “Explore your options, take your time, and make the decisions that feel right for you.”
Honoring a Team That Saves Lives Every Day
Stacey Rodgers and Jill Jennings embody the compassion, innovation, and dedication that define true oncology heroes. Their teamwork ensures that lung cancer patients at Banner MD Anderson receive not only clinical excellence but also the human touch that makes all the difference.
Join us in celebrating Stacey and Jill as our August 2025 Oncology Heroes of the Month — our first-ever featured duo.
Watch the full interview below to hear Stacey and Jill’s stories in their own words.
In addition to the Oncology Hero recognition, Azra AI has made a contributions to the charity of Stacey’s and Jill’s choice, the American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative. Please join us in donating to this cause.
