When I joined the project, the mission was clear: build a one-stop platform that would untangle this web of problems. The stakes were high, the challenge immense, and the first roadblock appeared almost instantly: a map.
The Vision That Inspired a Map
The client envisioned a cancer map—a subway-style guide to help patients navigate their journey with clarity. It was ambitious yet vital. But how do you map something as unpredictable as cancer?
The Challenge: Making Sense of Complexity
Designing the map felt like navigating a maze. We had to balance simplicity and detail, ensuring users could follow the journey without feeling overwhelmed. Through countless iterations, we broke the problem into smaller, testable sections—refining each until the map felt intuitive.
Small Wins, Big Impact
Focusing on small, user-tested improvements transformed the map into a dynamic guide, not just a static design. By the end, it became the heart of the platform, offering a structured path through uncertainty.
A Holistic Solution
Beyond the map, the Cancer Care Webapp streamlined appointments, symptoms, medications, finances, and nutrition—bringing everything into one place. The MVP launched, and user feedback continues to shape its evolution.
What I Learned from Subway Maps and Seamless Design
This project was as much about personal growth as it was about design. For the first time, I worked closely with developers, learning how to identify and resolve blockers caused by my designs. I also created a scalable design system for a vast project, something that will guide future iterations.
But the cancer map taught me the most: how to transform abstract ideas into tangible, impactful designs through persistence, creativity, and collaboration. It was a reminder that great design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about empathy, problem-solving, and connecting with the people you’re designing for.