For the past 40 years, Favorite Healthcare Staffing has placed nursing, advanced practice, and allied healthcare professionals in top-rated hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices across the country. We offer a variety of placement opportunities, including per diem, local and travel contracts, and permanent and temp-to-perm placement.
As we continue to celebrate our 40th anniversary, we want to highlight the healthcare professionals who have been an integral part of our journey these past four decades.
Our healthcare heroes have been through so much, especially this past year as they continue the fight against COVID-19. We are excited to feature these amazing individuals every week during the month of March and are so proud of all they have accomplished. This is just one small way we can show our appreciation.
Meet this month’s first #FavoriteFamilyFeature, Lori! Lori is an LPN and has been with Favorite for seven years now. Keep reading to learn more about her story.
Who or what inspired you to pursue your profession?
This is my second career! I spent 23 years at a local newspaper working as a Staff Writer. I took an early retirement buyout when my mom got lung cancer. She passed away within months and I spent two years acting like a child. I woke up one day in my mid-40s and thought, “Well, what to do now?”
I was always interested in healthcare, so I went to CNA school at age 45! I spent a year caring for severely disabled children and they gave me a reason to get up every day. I went on to nursing school and the rest is history! I’m 55 now and proof that it’s never too late to find your true calling.
How long have you been working with Favorite?
At least seven years. Favorite Healthcare used to fill my staffing shortages when I was Charge Nurse!
What is your favorite memory of working with us?
The Virginia office staff. They are amazing! I can’t tell you how many times they have been my therapist, listening to me when I’m sad over something on the job and putting up with my crazy nursing stories. These gals have laughed and cried right beside me all these years and I couldn’t be more appreciative.
In what ways has healthcare changed throughout your career?
I believe healthcare has gotten better in so many ways with technology. I also feel that only the strong survive. If you’re not empathetic, this is not a career for you. It’s the toughest job I’ve ever loved!!
What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self in this field?
My advice to myself early in this career…. go for the highest level of education obtainable so your options are limitless!
How have your patients inspired you?
My patients inspire me every day. They humble me and remind me that, one day, I too may need help. No one is immune from disease or catastrophe. I never forget it could be me lying in that bed at any time. Treat them as you want to be treated.
What do you find most rewarding about your job?
Honestly, it’s the simple things that keep me going – the grateful look on a patient’s face when you take five extra minutes with a warm washcloth, or the big smile they get when you change a TV channel to a much-loved cartoon. It’s the little things that we usually take for granted.
What keeps you motivated when times are tough?
What keeps me motivated is simply helping those who are unable, for whatever reason, to help themselves. I have come to realize it doesn’t really matter how many pills I give out – that washcloth mentioned above is one of the best medications I offer.
How do you see the future of healthcare?
I’m undecided on this, especially today. Change is inevitable and I can only hope whatever changes come they benefit the patient!
What skills do you think are important to possess to be successful in your profession?
The ability to adapt is crucial to working in an agency. You must be able to conform to your environment. Having a sense of humor is a must!
Tell us what makes you unique! What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Any hobbies or interests?
I love collecting Uranium glass! It totally mesmerizes me! My three grandchildren are the loves of my life. I absolutely love the beach! Anything to do with water and I’m game. I’m also obsessed with a tree that is right outside my door. I know it sounds crazy, but this tree is magical. Seven years’ worth of pictures!
What is your favorite quote?
“You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” – Aibileen Clark from the movie “The Help.”
What are the biggest lessons you have learned while working during the COVID-19 pandemic (personally, professionally, etc)?
It’s amazing what can be accomplished when working together.
If you want to learn more about our job opportunities, stay updated with our blog and make sure to check back next week for another Favorite Family Feature! We will be spotlighting our healthcare professionals all month long!
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