I have been an RN since 1993! My great grandmother passed when I was about 6 years old, we love our grandparents, and I wanted her to get better. So, I told her, “I would take care of people like you when they are not feeling well.” I tell people there is a difference in having a job and having a career. Find a career that you love, not just for the money (although that can be a plus!).
I began my nursing journey in high school, becoming a Nursing Assistant I in 10th grade and Nursing Assistant II in 11th. By 12th grade, I was enrolled in an LPN program and later earned my Associate Degree in Nursing from Northern Virginia Community College becoming the first in my family to attend college. During my RN training, I worked in med-surgery and was offered a position at the hospital, where I had an incredible mentor who helped shape my work ethic and supported me in earning my BSN from George Mason University.
Although I didn’t enjoy my OB rotation in school, I applied to Shady Grove Adventist Hospital’s Labor & Delivery unit and ended up loving it so much that I stayed for 25 years. Witnessing new life enter the world has been a profound blessing. Along the way, I married, raised two sons, and now enjoy the joy of three grandchildren.
After years of prayer, I felt called to serve closer to home in Prince George’s County. When Adventist HealthCare expanded into the area, I knew it was time. A connection through a colleague led me to Fort Washington Medical Center, and after continued prayer and reflection, I made the move and I’m so glad I did!
Initially, I came for OB experience. But as the years went on, I really loved Adventist HealthCare’s mission. To give God's care physically, mentally, and spiritually. That's right up my alley! I love the Lord Jesus, and my goal is to take care of my temple and others to God's glory!
I had a patient who was very nervous about her upcoming procedure. She had a few comorbidities and anxiety. I listened to her voice her concerns and reassured her. She did not trust the hospital system especially due to its history of racial discrimination with Black people. I asked her if I could pray for her and reach out to her physician. She thanked me and said she was very grateful. I educated her on the importance of having a Colonoscopy and gave her an example of a famous actor who died for Colon cancer. She was very thankful for the talk and proceeded to have her Colonoscopy with less anxiety. I used her as an example for my PCAP level 4.
The team is very close knit and family oriented, I love it!
They all resonate with me, but probably Respect. Everyone needs respect from the least to the utmost! From patients to the President. Knowing that everyone has worth, value, and dignity. Respect leads to the other RISES.
The love and longevity people have to be hands and feet for Jesus.
