What is your official title? ​ 

Registered Respiratory Therapist.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare? 

I’m a caretaker and I like to take care of people and help people. When my children started high school, I went back to school at Northern Michigan and chose the field. 

Northern’s Respiratory Therapy program was a big draw. It was a two-year program, and I ended up getting my Bachelor’s Degree at Northern. Plus, having that program close to home set me down this path.

The heart and lungs always interested me. I was just drawn to the processes in them.

What is a typical day like for you?

There is not a typical day in Respiratory Therapy, which is another draw. I could be in the Emergency Room, the ICU, or out on the floor helping people or fielding code calls. I don’t know what a regular day would look like without a little chaos thrown in. But I have an awesome team of Respiratory Therapists I get to work with.

How has your role changed with the pandemic?

My role hasn’t changed much, just the process of doing things — the masks, face shield, and PPE are extra precautions we have taken to keep our team and our patients safe. 

Every patient’s experience with COVID has been a little different, so managing when patients may need a ventilator has been a challenge at times. Recognizing when someone needs more immediate care, and just paying attention to our patients is key. 

But this is what I do. I don’t feel special or more needed; it’s just what I do and I love it.

What are some of your interests outside of work?

I like to travel and hike. I also spend a lot of time with my family. We also like to ride Harley’s. 

What is your favorite part about working at UPHS – Marquette?

The Respiratory Care Team. We are a very high functioning group that’s tight-knit and helpful to our co-workers and we get to make a difference in the lives of our patients.