Everyday Heroes: Cassandra & Eunice
Cassandra Larkin
Phlebotomist, Spectrum Health Lakeland, St. Joseph, MI
“I bring my heart to work and If I can make one patients’ day better by a simple smile or a joke, I do. I like to just listen to them.”
Why did you choose to work in healthcare and who influenced you?
I choose a career in healthcare 13 years ago this June. I had a teacher, Mrs. Holmes, who introduced me into the CNA program and after job shadowing I realized it was something I really wanted to do. I have worked my way up since then with multiple certifications. I had an opportunity to work in the lab after taking an exceled Phlebotomy course. I then did 3 months of clinicals at the SWMC Niles and was offered a job at the corporate site and have been here since.
Which unit do you most enjoy working in?
I love working oncology. I was asked to work the COVID-19 clinic to swab patients and without hesitation, I was up for the challenge.
What has been the most difficult challenge for you during COVID-19?
The most difficult challenge I have faced is being away from my daughter for the past 4 weeks. I decided to keep her with my mom so that she was staying safe. I didn’t want to bring COVID-19 home to her because I am on the frontlines.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is honestly the patients. I bring my heart to work and If I can make one patients’ day better by a simple smile or a joke, I do. I like to just listen to them. I also love training new employees and students.
Eunice Hansen
Medical Lab Scientist, Spectrum Health Lakeland, St. Joseph, MI
“I am honored to fight this viral war alongside my fellow brave healthcare employees and allies”
A Poem:
Some say we are the everyday heroes Some say we deserve a hundred churros But to me, I am just a nerdy science weirdo Working in a hospital lab with few windows Hematology, blood bank, microbiology, and chemistry Is where your lab testing is done behind the scenes Measuring, analyzing and identifying is always key To produce accurate results that lead to diagnosing Despite the risky time of infection, unknowns, and fear I am reminded off why I choose this medical lab career To make a difference in the lives of those in need here Proving hope and healing so Thye may see another year As this pandemic continues to spread COVID-19 I want to encourage all of you to look for a silver lining Stay positive, don’t give up, for the sun is still shining and remember to practice good hand hygiene! I am honored to fight this viral war alongside My fellow brave healthcare employees and allies But it’s not just us that are fighting, I do realize, For everyone doing their part are heroes on my eyes.