What is your role here at UP Health System – Portage? 
I am a pharmacist and I work in the inpatient pharmacy where our team works to provide medications for patients admitted to the hospital and those treated in our outpatient clinics such as Cancer Care, ACU, and Dialysis.

How long have you been employed with us? Have you always been in the same position? 
I have been in a few different roles at UPHS – Portage, including the Apothecary Pharmacy, nursing home pharmacy, and the inpatient pharmacy. I have worked at Portage for more than five years.

You have recently been working at our community COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic. Can you share how that experience has been for you so far? 
The role of pharmacists has changed over the last 20 years with many pharmacists now active in helping to provide immunizations. While I certainly didn’t anticipate putting my vaccination certification to use during a global pandemic, it has been a privilege to work at our community COVID-19 vaccine clinics. Many patients are excited to be receiving their COVID-19 vaccine and are looking forward to being able to safely see family and friends and it feels great to be able to help.

Tell us a little bit about your family. 
My husband and I are both originally from Calumet and have known each other since high school. We have three children, Tiia (16), Stella (15), and Charlie (7) that attend school in Houghton. We also have a golden retriever named Sunny.

What sorts of things do you like to do in your spare time? 
I love the outdoors – even in the winter! I love that we have a ski hill in our town and I try to get to Mt. Ripley at least once a week in the winter. I also enjoy cross-country skiing in the woods with our dog. In the summer, you will find me at the beach – White City, Eagle River, and Bete Gris are some favorite beaches for our family.

If you could go on a dream vacation, where would it be and why? 
I love to travel and honestly have a long list of dream destinations! My dream vacation would be a whale-watching cruise in Maui. I am a licensed SCUBA diver and have always wanted to swim with the blue whales that raise their calves in the warm waters near Hawaii. I have been lucky enough to snorkel with sea turtles and dolphins but have yet to encounter a whale!

What is the best part about working for UP Health System – Portage? 
The best part of working for UP Health System- Portage is truly being able to take care of our friends and neighbors.