What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am a Care Aide in the staffing pool at UP Health System – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

This goes way back to my senior year in high school when I took a nurses aide training class. I find it very rewarding to assist those in need.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

Every day is different for me. As I never know what unit within the hospital I will be needed. I enjoy the variety of doing this as well as sometimes being assigned to be a sitter or sometimes working on the floor.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I have been employed here for nearly 31 years. I have worked for the Home Health and Hospice as well as the Behavior Health Unit, where I worked for 13 years.

What are some of the big changes you've experienced in this position?

When I first started working as an aide, we were not trained to get vital signs or blood sugars. I have had training on many different skilled aspects of nursing throughout the years.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem? 

In my free time, I enjoy gardening, camping, fishing, going to concerts, and cooking for my family. I also enjoy decorating my house and giving it a new, fresh look. One of the local gems is the beautiful waterfalls. There are so many throughout the U.P.

Each week, we recognize and highlight a team member for the amazing work they do for their team, our hospital and our community. Anyone can nominate a UP Health System – Marquette Hero. If a team member positively impacts our hospital or clinics, you can nominate them by sending your submission to uphsmarketing@lifepointhealth.net.