News & Stories

Maria Metzler, RN, OCN, is an oncology infusion nurse at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper and a 2017 Pink and Teal Hero. Learn more about Metzler’s personal connection to ovarian cancer and find out how she met her husband of 29 years.

Q. Why did you decide to become an oncology infusion nurse?

A. My sister had ovarian cancer several years ago and was treated at Cooper. I was a pool nurse at the hospital at the time, but shortly after a position became available on the outpatient chemotherapy unit, and I have been there ever since. It was divine intervention.

Q. What books are currently on your nightstand?

A. My Bible. I like to try to pray every morning before I start my day. I’m also back in school studying for my BSN, so there are a lot of school books.

Q. What do you do for fun?

A. I enjoy mountain biking and road biking with my husband.

Q. What is one thing people may be surprised to learn about you?

A. My husband and I met at karate class. We’ve been married 29 years, and I have a black belt.

Q. Do you have a personal motto or philosophy?

A. I have heard it said: “If you love what you do, you don’t work a day in your life.” It is a privilege and a blessing to work alongside such wonderful people doing something I am passionate about.

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