Myeloma Canada is proud to announce Nina Mason as the recipient of the 2026 Marion State Memorial Nursing Award, a distinction that recognizes outstanding nursing contributions to the Canadian myeloma community. 

About the Award 

Established in 2012, the Marion State Memorial Nursing Award honours the legacy of Marion State, a nurse who was diagnosed with myeloma in 1996. Two years after her diagnosis, Marion founded the Toronto & District Multiple Myeloma Support Group. Her tireless advocacy extended beyond Toronto, as she helped establish several support groups across the country. This award was created to recognize nurses who carry forward that same spirit of community and compassion. 

Recognizing Nina Mason 

Nina Mason, a clinical trial nurse, embodies the values at the heart of this award. In her professional role, she brings exceptional care and patient-centred support to individuals navigating complex treatment pathways, ensuring that no patient feels alone in their journey. 

Nina’s contributions extend well beyond her clinical responsibilities. She has played a key role in strengthening connections across Alberta, helping link patients with Nurse Navigators in Medicine Hat and Lethbridge. Her work has meaningfully bridged gaps in care for patients who might otherwise face the navigation of life with myeloma in isolation. 

As a dedicated Steering Committee member for Phase 0 since the project’s inception, Nina has brought consistent leadership and invaluable insight to the team. She also actively volunteers and participates in the Airdrie Multiple Myeloma March, demonstrating a commitment to the myeloma community that goes far beyond her professional obligations. 

In Their Own Words 

The impact Nina has made is perhaps best captured by those she has supported directly. Patricia S., a patient, shared: 

“Nina consistently demonstrates an exceptional level of courtesy and kindness. From the very beginning, she has treated me with warmth, respect and genuine compassion… She makes me feel heard, valued, and supported and that level of dedication truly deserves recognition. She exemplifies what compassionate, patient-centred care should look like.” 

A Worthy Recipient 

Nina Mason’s dedication, leadership, and compassion reflect exactly what the Marion State Memorial Nursing Award was created to celebrate. Her contributions have made a tangible difference in the lives of people living with myeloma, their families, and her colleagues, particularly in communities where access to specialized care and support can be difficult to reach. 

Myeloma Canada is honoured to recognize Nina for her extraordinary service to the myeloma community, and we congratulate her on this well-deserved achievement.