UPHS – Marquette Heroes | Frances Stanchina, NICU RN
April 17, 2026
What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?
I am a registered nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at UP Health System – Marquette.
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
I have always wanted to help people. I have loved babies ever since I can remember, and helping mothers navigate one of the most special moments in their lives through an unpredictable diagnosis is truly a blessing.
What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?
Things are always changing and never the same. You might help a baby learn how to take a bottle one day and the next you are stabilizing a baby with a chest tube or on a ventilator. It can be scary at times but it is always rewarding to see a baby who has been here for two months finally go home to meet their siblings for the first time or spend their first night in their nursery.
How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I’ve worked here since 2019, first as a care aide on Neuro/Ortho/Peds, then as an ICU nurse during COVID-19 and now as a NICU nurse.
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
Going from adults to babies was the biggest challenge. The most unique experience has been going on transports to pick up babies needing a higher level of care from other hospitals in the U.P. We continue to respond to transport requests so babies can receive care close to home.
What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
I love spending time with my kids. My three-year-old son and nine-month-old daughter keep me on my toes. We enjoy hiking, going to the beach and exploring Marquette. I also love a Honey Lav at Blackrocks or a sunrise or sunset just about anywhere with a view.
What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?
I love my coworkers. When a shift seems like it might be rough, you can always count on the NICU or Family Birthing Center (FBC) nurses to embrace the challenges together and get the job done. It truly is the people you work with that make or break your night as a night shift nurse.