Patient Navigators
Melissa Krall, LMSW
Survivorship Programs Director, Nevada Cancer Coalition
Since childhood, Melissa has been interested in the medical field and helping people. Initially, she thought of a path as a doctor, but in college she became enthralled with the field of social work and the diversity of arenas where she could contribute. Her dual passions combined when she became a medical social worker for more than 18 years.
Like so many people, cancer touched the lives of close friends and family. When one of her co-workers was diagnosed with leukemia, her medical and first-responder community rallied to support the family through their journey. At the time, not realizing the lasting impact of that experience, Melissa and several others were inspired a decade later to train for half-marathons while fundraising for cancer research.
Melissa’s career as a licensed social worker has been varied and non-traditional. In addition to her work as a non-profit manager, her focus has often led her to specialized in end-of-life issues, death, dying and bereavement. She has extensive work and volunteer experience in hospice, death investigation, critical incident stress management, and organ donation.
Having partnered with NCC through shared community work, Melissa jumped at the opportunity to work within the agency as the Survivorship Programs Director. This role of working collaboratively with organizations and agencies matched with direct service as a patient navigator is the perfect combination.
Nayeli Rivera
Community Navigation Coordinator, Nevada Cancer Coalition
Nayeli is the Community Navigation Coordinator dedicated to guiding individuals and caregivers through their screening process and journey. Fluent in English and Spanish, she specializes in providing culturally appropriate non-clinical navigation services across Nevada.
Growing up as a first-generation Latinx daughter, she saw how overwhelming the healthcare system can be for families facing language and cultural barriers. She became a navigator because she believes no one should have to figure out their next steps alone. Nayeli's goal is to make sure everyone feels seen and to foster a deeper understanding of the diverse demographics and customs that enrich our communities.
Nayeli has worked for a handful of years as a helping professional beyond direct client support, in hospital settings, in-home consultations and stakeholder interactions. She now assists in coordinating statewide oncology networks to unite healthcare professionals and make sure those in their cancer journey are not walking alone.
Outside of work, Nayeli loves traveling, thrifting, staying active, and spending quality time with family, including her dog and cat.