In her own words…
I started working in Pediatrics in 2014, and I’ve loved every bit of it. On my highs, the children I encounter are the highlight of my day, and when I’m feeling sad and low, these little munchkins can make me laugh. They give love unexpectedly and unselfishly to everyone they meet. These little people with big personalities have grown on me. I love how they are just them, and they make me love what I do. Working in a specialty clinic has motivated me to want to elevate in my career. I feel, personally, for one to work in healthcare, it requires them to have compassion, empathy and sympathy.
I began my educational journey at Southwestern Illinois College where I studied nursing. My time in school confirmed my higher calling. I met patients I grew to love. I saw impending death for the first time. Often, I would witness elderly suffering through a health crisis alone, without anyone to comfort them. It weighed heavily on me because, as a healthcare provider, I understand the importance of support.
I have been able to experience the blessings of new life watching children being born; it an amazing feeling. It is what drives me to be there for my patients to assist and provide the best care possible. No matter the circumstance, I get to serve my patients and be a part of their monumental moments. I find true purpose in that. Furthermore, I am an advocate for care, and I’m grateful for the experiences and relationships experienced along the way. It has molded me and taught me so much.
Now, working at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis in Pediatric Ambulatory Services, I add a new layer of experience to my resume. While every day is a blessing, it’s not always easy. My eyes have been opened to the struggles some of these patients are facing. It’s hard to know that life for a child can be difficult. Especially when, as an adult, I have yet to encounter some of these situations. These children experience loss and disappointment — all of which can be detrimental on their minds and spirits. Incorporate that into my method of care as a registered medical assistant.
Care begins from the very first “Hello.” Every person our patients meet is a vital part in setting the tone for what is to come. When I welcome them into our department, I want them to feel as though we are one, we are in the fight together. Our team really cares, and we are all working on one accord to address whatever issues they may have. Whatever I give out, I get back.
I’m inspired daily, as I watch my patients persevere. They keep growing and getting better, every visit, they come back smarter. I see them and know that I too can make it, I can persevere despite whatever hardships I face. I’m reminded we keep going and growing. I look at the babies who can’t tell us a thing —cannot describe the pain and anxiety of long hospital stays and constant doctor appointments, long lab visits, yet they come in the office with the biggest smiles, calm and ready to tackle the appointment. I admire them sooo much. I hope to be just as strong. Kids are superheroes here, iron will and all.
I’m reminded of a special patient. She was a firecracker, taking on her condition with the determination to get back home. I saw firsthand the experience of the family. I witnessed how much of an impact her healthcare providers had on her family. Her mom stressed the importance of having a good team of providers and healthcare workers and how that combination made a difference for her baby girl. My family reports the same thing as I, too, was a child who spent a significant amount of time in hospitals. I now get to work with a team of providers who do that same thing. They give love and assist the family in a care that supports dignity and maintains autonomy. Every day, they live up to the words in their oath. I hope that my care is reflective of the providers I support and the people I work alongside of.
The physicians here have encouraged me and taught me so much. They are always open to explaining the advanced medical practices they use. They are patient and push us to be a great support team. Watching them has pushed me to enroll in school to pursue higher education.
I hope to provide a great life to my two children and inspire them to do well in the lives of others. Right now, they enjoy sports and leisure activities that I am able to attend because I have work-life balance. Though the last few years have been trying and healthcare has undergone many changes and shifts in policy, I am so grateful to be here. I know the future is bright for me. I’m looking forward to the prosperity and growth 2024 will bring, and I am grateful to Washington University and Ambulatory Pediatrics for being a part of that.