At Azra AI, we’re honored to recognize Kayla Byrd, a thoracic oncology nurse navigator at Baptist Health System in San Antonio, Texas, as our July 2025 Oncology Hero! With a deep sense of purpose, empathy, and clinical expertise, Kayla is a true beacon of light for lung cancer patients navigating their most vulnerable moments.
Finding Her Calling
Kayla’s journey into oncology was never just a job, it was a calling. “Lung cancer patients are a unique breed,” she shared. “They speak to my soul.” Since becoming an RN in 2009 and earning her OCN certification in 2014, Kayla has leaned into the ever-evolving nature of oncology. Her passion lies in problem-solving, innovation, and being the steady guide patients need when everything else feels uncertain.
A Steady Hand in a Storm
Whether she’s decoding complex diagnoses or helping patients understand their treatment options, Kayla is committed to translating “doctor language” into human terms. “I get to be the nurse that talks the real deal,” she says. In every conversation, she delivers honesty, empathy, and clarity.
“You Are Not Alone”
Kayla meets patients in their moments of fear, not with platitudes, but with presence. “This is scary,” she tells them, “but let’s hold onto this hope.” She reminds patients that today’s cancer care is not what it was 10 years ago, especially for lung cancer. From immunotherapy and targeted treatments to robotic-assisted surgery, early detection and prompt action make all the difference. “Nobody deserves cancer. And nobody needs to go through it alone.”
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Navigators
Kayla believes that to be an effective navigator, you have to earn your stripes. “Start from the bottom up,” she advises. “Be the glue. But to be the glue, you have to know what you're gluing together.” Her journey, from inpatient care to infusion, leadership, and now navigation, has given her the perspective to truly meet each patient where they are.
The Human in Healthcare
As deeply committed to patient outcomes as she is to human connection, Kayla is passionate about integrating emotion and authenticity into her work. “This [Cancer care] isn’t a conveyor belt,” she says. “These are people. And they need us to be people with them.” Her ability to show up with honesty, even when it's hard, is part of what makes her such a powerful advocate.
Why Technology Matters
Kayla embraces the role of AI and technology in care coordination, not to replace the human touch, but to empower it. “AI won’t ever be able to call a patient and say, ‘I hear you,’ but it can help me find the patients who need that call most urgently,” she says. “Azra gives me tools to do what I do better. It saves time, supports decisions, and helps us focus on what matters most, being there for our patients.”
Watch the Full Video with Kayla Byrd’s Oncology Hero Journey
Check out our full video below to hear Kayla’s full story in her own words—from heartfelt patient moments to powerful perspectives on lung cancer care and the future of nurse navigation.
In addition to the Oncology Hero recognition, Azra AI has made a contributions to the charities of Kayla's choice, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, and the Texas Search and Rescue Fund in response to July’s tragic flash floods. Please join us in donating to this cause.
