Darcy Burbage Honored with ONS’s 2025 Excellence in Social Media Impact Award

Life has a way of placing extraordinary people in the right places at the right time—and for Darcy Burbage, that place is the intersection of oncology nursing and digital advocacy. Recently honored with the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Excellence in Social Media Impact Award, Darcy’s story is one of purpose, passion, and pioneering leadership in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

Photo of Darcy Burbage from ONS

From the Bedside to the Digital Frontline

Darcy’s journey began like that of many nurses—drawn to care, rooted in empathy, and committed to walking alongside patients through their most vulnerable moments. As an advanced oncology certified nurse and palliative care expert, she has spent years at the bedside, offering not just medical expertise but a sense of calm, strength, and presence.

But Darcy’s impact didn’t stop there.

With a heart for connection and a voice that resonates, she began sharing educational insights, reflections, and resources online—transforming her social media platforms into safe, informative, and empowering spaces for patients, caregivers, and fellow professionals alike.

When Connection Becomes a Calling

Darcy understood early on that social media wasn’t just a place for opinions—it was a tool for education, advocacy, and hope. Through thoughtful posts on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and Instagram, she began breaking down complex cancer terminology, spotlighting innovations in care, and amplifying the stories of those whose voices needed to be heard most.

Her digital content became a lifeline for many. Patients found clarity in her guidance. Families found comfort in her compassion. Nurses found a mentor in her voice.

As the Oncology Nursing Society noted, her social media presence has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the oncology nursing profession—a reflection of both her integrity and innovation.

A Message That Matters

For Darcy, it’s not about going viral—it’s about being valuable. Her posts carry the heartbeat of the oncology nursing community. Whether live-tweeting from conferences, sharing newly published guidelines, or encouraging self-care for fellow nurses, she is a trusted voice in a noisy digital world.

“Social media is a bridge,” Darcy often says—one that connects evidence to empathy, professionals to patients, and science to the stories that bring it to life.

Leading by Example, Inspiring a Movement

Receiving the ONS Excellence in Social Media Impact Award is more than a personal achievement—it’s a recognition of a shift in how oncology nursing can evolve in the digital age. Darcy is at the forefront of this movement, demonstrating how nurses can be not only caregivers, but communicators and changemakers in the public sphere.

Her journey reflects the power of modern nursing leadership—where impact isn’t confined to the hospital walls but radiates outward, across screens and across hearts.

A Legacy Still Unfolding

Darcy Burbage continues to educate, uplift, and advocate—one post, one patient, one story at a time. Her recent recognition is a milestone, but for those who have followed her work and felt her presence, it’s simply the continuation of a legacy built on compassion, courage, and connection.

Her message to the next generation of nurses is clear: “Your voice matters. Use it—for your patients, your peers, and your profession.”

In honoring Darcy, we honor the many nurses shaping the future not just with their hands, but with their voices—and with unwavering hearts.

Join the Conversation

Feeling inspired by Darcy’s story? Let it be a reminder that the power of connection—online or offline—can truly change lives. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a caregiver, or someone looking to make a difference, your voice has value.

Follow OncoDaily for more uplifting stories, expert insights, and frontline perspectives from across the oncology world. Because sometimes, all it takes is one story to spark a new path forward.