Karelia Falcon is working her dream job as a charge nurse at Slyvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Doral. Building meaningful relationships with patients who become like family during the course of their treatments motivates her every day. “My patients teach me what is hope, what is bravery,” she says. Celebrating with patients who become cancer-free is always a gift because she witnesses true joy in patients, families and colleagues. Karelia is grateful for the opportunity to lead her colleagues as a charge nurse. “I know I’m in the right place,” she says. Karelia began her nursing career after immigrating to the U.S. from Cuba at age 26. She holds an Associate of Science in Nursing from Florida National University in Miami and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Ariz. Outside work, she enjoys volunteering at her children’s schools and caring for her pets.