Geri Contreras, Front Desk Coordinator – Mat-Su Valley Cancer Center (MSVCC)
When Geri first moved to Alaska, her journey began in Barrow, where a new opportunity in the medical field awaited her. She started her career in medical records and soon transitioned to the front desk, where she developed a deep appreciation for patient care and connection.
After five years in Barrow, Geri moved to Anchorage to continue her career in healthcare, spending the next seven years expanding her skills and knowledge.
During her time in Anchorage, Geri had the privilege of working with Dr. Jan Whitefield, whose mentorship helped shape her professional path. Through this experience, Geri discovered her passion for working in small, close-knit clinics where patient relationships are personal and meaningful.
Eventually, Geri accepted a temporary position at Mat-Su Valley Cancer Care—a role that soon became permanent. Three years later, she continues to thrive there, describing the work as her true calling.
“It was important for me to find a lifelong position—something I could see myself enjoying for the rest of my career,” she says. Those who meet Geri can immediately sense her warmth and positivity—an energy that lights up the room and puts patients at ease.
Cancer care can be a difficult journey, but Geri focuses on creating comfort and connection. She takes time to learn about patients and their families, listening to stories about their lives beyond cancer. This genuine interest helps build a sense of trust and community within the clinic.
Outside of work, Geri finds peace in Alaska’s great outdoors. She enjoys hiking and relaxing with a warm cup of tea. A lover of travel, she feels especially connected to the tranquility of Hawaii and is grateful to have visited each of the islands.
Family remains central to Geri’s life. Her daughter is a licensed athletic trainer in Hastings, Minnesota, and her son is pursuing an HVAC program at Mat-Su College. Geri feels at home at Mat-Su Valley Cancer Center, where Dr. Bob Sollaccio leads a compassionate team focused not just on treating cancer, but on seeing each patient as a whole person.
“We may meet people through their diagnosis,” Geri says, “but it’s their stories, their lives outside of cancer, that truly matter.”
It’s this deep empathy and curiosity that makes Geri such a valued part of the team. She finds joy in discovering the unique and remarkable details of each person she meets—stories that remind her why she chose this path in the first place.
