UP Health System – Marquette Heroes | Kaleigh Lequia, MS, RD, CDCES

What is your role at UP Health System – Marquette? 

I’m a registered dietitian and diabetes educator, providing outpatient care and education to our patients. I’m also the primary dietitian for the Specialty Clinic with pediatric diabetes, BluePrint for Health, Multi-Handicap and Hemophilia clinics.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare? 

I think mine is the same as it is for most in this field, which is having a true passion for helping people! I enjoy sharing accurate, applicable, evidenced-based nutrition information with folks who are open to learning or looking for guidance.

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

On a typical day, I start with prepping my outpatients for the day by looking into why they are coming to me and anything in their medical history that I think is relevant. Most of my day is spent then with the patients and charting after. On other days I may spend at the Specialty Clinic or following up on patient prescriptions, referrals, or anything else we are working on. Working in nutrition and diabetes can be challenging but also very rewarding. I feel there’s a lot of stereotyping that happens with dietitians and everyone thinks I’m going to recommend a diet or tell them what they can and can’t eat, which is not the case.

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

I’ve been working here for about two and a half years, in the same position except my first couple of weeks doing some inpatient nutrition work.

What are some of the significant changes you have experienced in this position?

I would say the biggest change I’ve experienced while in this position is how I practice. In the past, I viewed nutrition in much more of a good/bad food approach. Time and experiences have allowed me to realize that nutrition is something that has so much nuance and one size does not fit all. 

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

I love getting out and enjoying nature. My husband and I like to go for walks and hikes. I’ve got a lot of love for Mother Superior. I enjoy traveling as well and have been able to see quite a few cities around the world. We are also big NFL fans and I’m thrilled with my Detroit Lions!

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette? 

Being a product of the UP, I love being able to give back and support our region. The UP has a lot of benefits but one of the bigger downfalls is a lack of resources. I’m proud to be a nutrition and diabetes resource for our patients and the community.