Dena Gebril, Physician Assistant-Certified, Palliative Care at JPS Health Network, was recognized as the 2025 APP of the Year for her meaningful contributions to palliative care at JPS Health Network. Known for her steady compassion and clear communication with patients and families, Gebril has become a trusted presence during some of the most complex moments in care. The award, she says, is an unexpected but deeply appreciated acknowledgment of the work she feels called to do.
“It’s so humbling,” Gebril said. “I see so many amazing Advanced Practice Providers (APP) and providers in this hospital. To be recognized among them is a feeling that I can’t even put into words.”
After beginning her career in oncology, Gebril discovered her true calling in the field of palliative care, a specialty she initially didn’t fully understand. However, working closely with palliative care teams revealed to her the depth, honesty, and shared humanity embedded in the work.
“I can’t fix everything. But I can sit with you. I can see you. And I will be here.”
Every day, she meets patients and families on what might be the worst day of their lives. Many are navigating fear, hope, grief, or uncertainty. Her role is to help manage symptoms, guide difficult conversations, and simply sit with people in their most vulnerable moments.
“It is a blessing to be there, to see them, to hear them, and to help them feel less alone,” said Gebril.
Kimberly Lynn, Manager of Advanced Practice Professionals at JPS, nominated Gebril and shared that she embodies the values of JPS through her extraordinary empathy. Gebril advocates for those who often feel invisible. Lynn highlighted her exceptional communication skills and dedication to ensuring that patients never have to face difficult decisions alone.
“Dena consistently provides exceptional, patient-focused care and communicates with empathy and compassion,” said Lynn. “She is a strong advocate for both her patients and her colleagues, which is why she truly deserves to be recognized as Advanced Practice Provider of the Year.”
Gebril openly recognizes the emotional toll of her work. She has learned to set important boundaries, rely on her team, process her feelings, and take moments to cry when needed, which she says helps her stay strong.
“You have to feel it, process it, and then pick yourself up for the next one,” Gebril said. “Our emotions are there for a reason.”
What keeps her showing up each day is the privilege of building trust with patients from every culture and background. She often finds herself learning from their traditions and beliefs. Gebril says that shared humanity is the heart of palliative care.
“Deep down, we’re all the same,” Gebril said. “We have the same fears, the same desires, the same hopes. I want every patient to feel seen as a person, despite their diagnosis.”
For Gebril, JPS became the right place at exactly the right time. After completing PA school rotations here, she always remembered how welcomed, supported, and embraced she felt. Returning as a provider felt natural. She has since helped create a national PA certification in palliative care and continues to advocate for greater recognition of the essential role PAs can play in this specialty.
Each day, she enters patient rooms with a simple goal to ensure no one feels alone. Whether she can fix a problem medically or by simply sitting with someone who is hurting, she strives to be a steady, and compassionate presence.
“I can’t fix everything,” said Gebril. “But I can sit with you. I can see you. And I will be here.”
Her award is a testament to her unwavering excellence, compassion, and the profound acts of kindness that truly transform lives.
And for Gebril, that is all the validation she needs.
“This award makes me realize my purpose,” Gebril said. “This is why I’m here.”