Kala Chapman’s Journey to the Pharmacy Field

Kala Chapman

Kala Chapman“I started not knowing anything about being a pharmacy tech and was brought into the pharmacy setting just by chance. It turned out to be something I loved to do!” – Kala Chapman, CPhT

With no prior knowledge of pharmacy work, it was a chance encounter that led Kala Chapman to discover her passion. She is now building her career as a pharmacy technician at MRHC.

“I did have a lot of interest in healthcare as my mom and sister are/were both in healthcare and thought it would be the right fit for me as well,” Chapman said. “But I actually went to college to become an administrative assistant. When I moved to Audubon, I took a job as a ward clerk at the hospital. About five years later, the pharmacist was looking for a technician, so I took the test, and here I am!”

Without hesitation, Chapman took the leap, paving the way for her current role at MRHC where her experience has been one of continuous growth and support. Her sights are set on becoming an Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician, a goal she pursues diligently through continuous education and training. Recognizing her potential, MRHC has empowered Chapman to expand her skill set.

“MRHC has allowed me to broaden my horizons as a pharmacy technician,” Chapman said. “They have sent me to classes to learn how to mix chemo and antibiotics safely for our patients. They’ve also provided training on obtaining medication histories from newly admitted patients. There are other classes that I plan on taking as well.”

The work environment is another factor that Chapman appreciates about working at MRHC. She enjoys the camaraderie and the opportunity to learn from others. Most importantly, she finds the work fulfilling and is eager to develop her abilities even further.

“MRHC is positive and supportive,” shared Chapman. “I get along with all my coworkers and we work well as a team. I just love what I do here and am excited to grow in my career.”

Pharmacy Director, Jen Morris, PharmD, praises Chapman’s contributions to the hospital, saying, “Kala does fantastic work as a pharmacy technician. She is detail-oriented and her highly reliable and accurate work ensures that patients have access to the meds they need. Her strong technician skills and willingness to help make her a valuable team member at MRHC.”

For students considering a career like hers, Chapman offers valuable advice. “I would tell a student pursuing a pharmacy career to job shadow or get a job just working in a pharmacy first to see if it will be something you like. If so, just study hard and the test should be a piece of cake!”

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, click here or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Jill Arp Makes Community-Wide Impact

Jill Arp

At MRHC, one healthcare professional stands out for her dedication, versatility, and commitment to the well-being of both patients and the community. Jill Arp is a nurse whose journey into healthcare began with a passion for caring for others during college as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Today, she wears multiple hats at MRHC, demonstrating resilience and adaptability, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When I worked as a CNA in college, I enjoyed taking care of people and getting to know them. At that point, I changed my college major from elementary education to nursing,” shared Arp, RN, BSN. A pivotal decision that would set the stage for a fulfilling career dedicated to serving others’ health needs.

As the Infection Preventionist, Employee Health Nurse, Disaster Preparedness Coordinator, and Safety and Security Officer, Arp has no shortage of responsibilities at MRHC. Additionally, being a nurse allows her to contribute directly to patient care in different departments as needed. Her work in these pivotal roles not only makes a difference in ensuring patient and staff health and safety, but she also makes a difference community-wide.

“Jill is a compassionate nurse who views patient care on a community level, offering important services to our local businesses to help keep their employees well,” said Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “Jill’s community leadership in her infection control role was especially instrumental throughout the recent pandemic.”

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges for healthcare institutions worldwide, and MRHC was no exception. Arp played a crucial role in guiding MRHC’s response to the pandemic, collaborating with state and local authorities, and ensuring the safety of both patients and staff. Her efforts included extensive education, coordination of vaccination clinics, and participation in regional healthcare coalitions, highlighting her leadership and dedication during times of crisis.

“The pandemic was very challenging; it was like nothing I’ve ever had to deal with before,” Arp reflected. “There was a lot of collaboration with many different people. We experienced so much change, and our staff accepted it all with grace. They were all willing to help other departments, do different jobs, and step out of their comfort zones. Not only during the pandemic, but on a daily basis. I am proud of our staff and how they took care of our patients and found ways to make it all work.”

Collaborative efforts among Arp and other healthcare partners have continued to be instrumental in addressing community health needs. Arp works with Carroll County Public Health on various initiatives to address public health challenges, particularly in promoting preventive measures like flu vaccinations and regular health check-ups.

Arp attributes her ability to thrive in such a busy and demanding role to the supportive and flexibile work environment of MRHC. This allows her to balance her professional responsibilities with her family commitments, showcasing MRHC’s commitment to employee well-being.

“MRHC is a fun and great place to work, especially because of who is part of our team. From the environmental services staff to the doctors, everyone works well together for the best care of the patient,” said Arp. “MRHC is also flexible, and that’s what I need for my family.”

Through collaboration, flexibility, and a shared commitment to excellence, Arp and her colleagues at MRHC continue to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of Manning and its surrounding communities. If you are interested in joining this team of healthcare professionals and helping make a difference in the community, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

John Hansen Making a Difference Behind the Scenes at MRHC

John Hansen

John HansenJohn Hansen’s career path is one rooted in family influence and a willingness to embrace a challenge. Despite a background in factory work, John decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and give the maintenance field a try. His decision turned out to be a rewarding one, and he found a true passion for the work at MRHC.

“I never saw myself working in a hospital, but I figured I would give it a try and am really glad I did,” John shared.

Starting as a maintenance tech in February of 2020, John would quickly grow into a leadership role just a year later, becoming the department supervisor in April of 2021. With the work he does and the impact he makes at MRHC, it is no question that non-clinical roles play a vital role in ensuring smooth functioning of healthcare facilities. While a job in maintenance might not be at the forefront of patient care, John emphasizes the importance of his role in keeping everyone comfortable during their stay at MRHC. From ensuring the functionality of facilities to addressing maintenance issues promptly, John’s work contributes significantly to the overall patient experience.

“MRHC is so fortunate to have John. He is knowledgeable in so many different areas, digs into whatever needs fixing, and tries to figure things out on his own,” said Chief Human Resources Officer, Shelli Lorenzen. “John quickly fell into a management role and absolutely owned it. We couldn’t ask for a more dedicated employee. He knows what needs to be done and he does it, even if that means spending the entire weekend at MRHC to move snow so the ambulances can always get to the ER.”

In addition to making a positive impact on patients and helping his coworkers whenever possible, John appreciates the flexibility and support that he has at the hospital. Trust also plays a crucial role in fostering a positive work experience, and John attests that the administrative staff at MRHC trusts him implicitly. Something that is key to a productive and positive workplace.

“MRHC is very family oriented, and I know that when a family issue arises, I can go without question,” he shared. “Dan’s food is just an added bonus to working here.”

John’s journey at MRHC exemplifies the potential for growth and fulfillment in non-clinical roles within the healthcare industry. From his family-inspired career choice to the impact he makes on patient well-being, John’s story is a testament to the diverse and essential roles that contribute to the success of a healthcare institution like MRHC.

To join the MRHC team, click here or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

MRHC Joins Educational Alliance with Purdue Global

MRHC exterior

Purdue Global has signed an educational alliance agreement with Manning Regional Healthcare Center, bringing broad-based educational opportunities with tuition reduction to staff and their family members.

“The Purdue Global School of Nursing is excited to begin our partnership with Manning Regional Healthcare Center and eager to support its mission around continuing education and the pursuit of academic achievement,” said Melissa Burdi, Purdue Global dean and vice president of the School of Nursing.

The Purdue Global School of Nursing offers an associate degree program, an RN-BSN program, eight master’s programs in nursing specialties, and a doctorate program for nursing. Additional Purdue Global offerings include programs for business, criminal justice, human services and psychology, among others. The Purdue Global Law School and aviation programs are not included in this partnership.

Manning Regional staff and immediate family members (spouse, domestic partner, children, siblings and parents) will have access to a 20% tuition reduction for undergraduate programs, 14% reduction for graduate programs, and 10% reduction for doctoral programs.

“We look forward to partnering with Purdue Global to provide online educational opportunities for our staff,” said Michelle Andersen, chief nursing officer at the center. “We appreciate the convenience and flexibility this platform offers for our full-time working staff to be able to advance their careers.”

Click here to read the full article.

Building Healthier Communities Throughout Iowa

career camp

*Adapted from article by Richard C. Lewis with the University of Iowa.

It was a grisly scene. A 24-year-old male riding without a helmet had crashed his bicycle into a parked car. The man lay unconscious on the pavement, his right leg splayed at an unnatural angle. And his rescue hinged on a group of untrained adolescents. students in the ambulance station of the health care career camp

Although they were participating in a simulation, the students took their responsibilities seriously. Each sprang into action to attend the wounded individual—a life-sized mannequin—guided by professional EMT personnel. Tatum, an eighth grader who goes to school in Manning,  gently took the head and held it steady while a fellow eighth grade student, Audrey, cut the pants from the man’s wounded leg and applied a vacuum sling to immobilize the limb. They and three others then lifted the patient in unison onto a stretcher and securely loaded him into the ambulance.

The rescue scene was one of several scenarios staged at the Health Care Career Camp this fall in Manning, where middle and high school students from school districts in Manning and Coon Rapids learned about potential careers in the medical and health care fields. The students rotated among several stations, learning what happens on the front lines of the 17-bed critical-access hospital, which serves patients in Carroll and three surrounding counties in west-central Iowa. It was the fourth time MRHC had hosted the camp.

ER station at healthcare career camp At the emergency room station, the students intubated a mannequin, their eyes wide as they watched on an overhead screen their progress in guiding a breathing tube into a trachea. At the laboratory stop, they practiced drawing blood; at the surgical and anesthesia center, they took turns stitching a wound and using a bone saw; in radiology, they looked awestruck at X-rays of children with broken arm and leg bones and a little boy who had swallowed a quarter; at the physical therapy unit, they learned balance techniques and how to use electric stimulation to help patients regain muscle function, among other activities. student learning to saw through cast

“What makes a difference is the dedication of the people who work here; they show the next generation all the great employment choices that exist here,” says Michelle Andersen, chief nursing officer at MRHC who conceived the idea for the career camp.

The whirlwind tour made an impression on Audrey, who attends school at IKM-Manning, and says she wasn’t sure what to expect—other than getting out of school for the day.

“It has changed the way I thought health care would be,” she says, adding the tour presented a far different picture of a hospital setting than television shows like Grey’s Anatomy. “It’s not always that people are stressed out. There are personal connections with patients, personal connections with your co-workers. It’s more of a people-based job.”

Summer, a sophomore at Coon Rapids High School, was in the same group as Audrey. She says she’s been interested in health and medicine since she was a child when she regularly accompanied her grandfather to the hospital for his cancer treatment appointments.

“I just like the idea of helping people and trying to make people feel better,” Summer says.

The tour not only solidified Summer’s interest in health care and medicine, it seemed to crystallize her desire to become a nurse anesthetist—and, hopefully, to work at a smaller hospital, such as MRHC.

“I would like to keep it close to home,” she says, “because I’m planning on having a family. I grew up around here, and I’d like my kids to also grow up around here.”

The Health Care Career Camp, organized by staff at MRHC, was funded in part by the Business Leadership Network, an initiative from the University of Iowa College of Public Health to promote and empower health and wellness in communities throughout Iowa.

Since launching in 2011, the BLN has coordinated 44 health and wellness efforts in 38 small to mid-sized communities in Iowa. With funding from the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation for the past eight years, the BLN teams up with local businesses and civic and nonprofit agencies. The focus varies, depending on each community’s need. The BLN has spearheaded community public health initiatives that address a broad range of needs with particular emphasis on issues of concern in rural areas, including aging, agricultural health and safety, cyberbullying, immunizations, nutrition and physical activity, substance use, and mental health, among many others.

The goal, explains Edith Parker, dean of the College of Public Health, is to match the college’s resources and expertise with each community’s identified priority. “In public health, it’s critical to listen to local voices and engage communities in health solutions,” Parker says. “When we meet communities where they are and bring resources to support local priorities, there’s a much better chance of improving health outcomes.”

*Click here to read the full article.

From Executive Chef to Healthcare Support Services Director: Grove’s Culinary Journey Making a Healing Impact

Dan Grove

Dan GroveA culinary career can take many unexpected turns, leading to surprising and fulfilling destinations. This is the case for Dan Grove, whose passion for cooking initially led him to kitchens of prestigious hotels and restaurants, ultimately guiding him to a pivotal role at MRHC, where his culinary expertise now plays a crucial role in patient care.

Grove’s culinary journey began after graduating from Tech High Vocational Trade School. His thirst for culinary knowledge led him to earn an AAS in Culinary Arts from DMACC, solidifying his foundation in the culinary world in 1986. Throughout the years, he took on various roles as an Executive Chef, leaving his mark in renowned establishments like the Holiday Inn, Embassy Suites, and Marriott management services, as well as with local restaurants.

However, the demanding hours and the desire for a better work-life balance prompted Grove to shift his career. In 2007, an opportunity emerged at MRHC, where he joined as the Dietary Manager.

“I always wanted to be a chef. I enjoy cooking and have a passion for it,” shared Grove, CDM, CFPP, CWC. “But I came to a point in my life where the hours required were hard and affected my personal life. The position for Dietary Manager opened at MRHC, and it was a great fit for me having a young child at home.”

Grove’s role expanded over time, blending his culinary expertise with management skills. When the need arose for someone to manage housekeeping (EVS), his position morphed into the Support Services Director. The combination of nutrition services and EVS management aligned well, emphasizing the importance of sanitation in both departments. Grove’s commitment to maintaining impeccable standards in sanitation proved crucial, understanding that a clean and hygienic environment goes beyond the kitchen. Grove argues that it also has an impact on patient well-being.

“Proper nutrition is a huge part in healing the human body so our job in dietary is extremely important and goes a long way in making our patients well,” Grove emphasized. “And I think it goes without saying that a safe, sanitary, and clean environment is so beneficial and mandatory for the patient.”

Reflecting on the shift from restaurant kitchens to healthcare facilities, Grove is often asked if he misses working in that type of atmosphere.

“My immediate answer would be yes, but nothing outweighs my ability to work at a job I love and still be able to have quality time with my wife, children, grandchildren, and friends. This job allows me to do just that,” shared Grove.

Grove’s tenure at Manning Regional now spans an impressive 16 years, a testament to the supportive environment and the organization’s commitment to employee well-being.

“Everyone here is great to work with, and that makes it so easy to come to work each day,” said Grove. “It is a great atmosphere to work in. They truly care about their employees and try to make it a great place to work while still always moving forward and improving for our customer-patient experience.”

From orchestrating fine dining experiences to nurturing an environment conducive to healing, Grove’s culinary career showcases the power of passion, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference in people’s lives, one plate and one sanitized surface at a time.

To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Hands-On Experiences Spark Hartwigsen’s Passion for Emergency Medicine

Lisa Hartwigsen

Lisa Hartwigsen“Two unique opportunities early in my career made it clear to me that I wanted to be an emergency room nurse,” shared Lisa Hartwigsen, RN, and current Emergency/Med Surg Director at MRHC. “I have always been interested in healthcare but I wasn’t sure on what specific career to pursue. My junior year of high school I joined the Army National Guard as a combat medic. Then, the next year as a senior, I interned with Carroll County EMS.” These were two immersive career experiences Hartwigsen was grateful to have before attending nursing school.

Hartwigsen attended nursing school at DMACC in Carroll, initially became a nurse on the Med-Surg floor and then a charge nurse. “After that, I accepted a position in the emergency department and found my passion for emergency medicine,” said Hartwigsen.

Soon after, the opportunity arose for Hartwigsen to further her career as the Emergency Dept/Med Surg Director at MRHC. “I value the senior management’s mentorship in my new role, and I really appreciate how MRHC has encouraged me to seek out leadership classes,” shared Hartwigsen.

Hartwigsen also likes that MRHC prides itself on contributing to a positive work culture. As she grows as a director, her goal is to continue that within her department with a focus on personal development.

“I want to provide an encouraging work environment for my team,” Hartwigsen said. “The work environment at MRHC already encourages teamwork and growth within the facility. The staff works together to provide the best possible care to the community no matter what their role is.”

Focusing on the people is something that has already made Hartwigsen a great leader, according to Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “Lisa has embraced the Med/surg/emergency department director role and always keeps patients and staff at the center of what she does,” Andersen said. Michelle Andersen

Hartwigsen attributes her ability to grow in her career to administration and appreciates how they have built a positive work culture and model constructive leadership. “MRHC’s administrative team is very transparent and keeps staff updated on the facility’s financial performance and plans for growth,” she shared.

In addition to the positive work environment and support from administration, Hartwigsen also enjoys the work-life balance that MRHC provides its employees. “The harmony between my career and my home-life benefits my family and I greatly,” said Hartwigsen.

For any student who may be considering a career in healthcare, specifically in nursing, Hartwigsen recommends that students, “job shadow different healthcare careers. You never know what might interest you.”

MRHC has hosted Healthcare Career Camps for local schools, providing immersive, hands-on experiences for students interested in learning more about various roles in healthcare. To learn more about taking part in a Healthcare Career Camp, contact Julie at Julie.hodne@mrhcia.com or call (712) 655-8179.To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Dalton Lytle Finds Hope In Recovery and Joy in Helping Others

Recovery Counselor, Dalton Lytle, CADC

“We save lives here and I’m grateful to be part of that,” shared Dalton Lytle, Recovery Counselor who works at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC). “Manning Recovery Center has changed my life for the better. I am proud to be an employee here and represent what recovery can do for someone.”

Lytle attended college for a short time before beginning his career in bridge construction for eight years. He never intended to return to college, let alone work in an office as an addiction counselor, but after personally receiving treatment at the Recovery Center, he moved to Manning and took a job opportunity as a part-time tech at MRHC. Lytle shares how his personal experience with addiction and recovery helps him relate to his clients on a personal level.

Recovery Counselor, Dalton Lytle, CADC“After working at the Recovery Center for a while it was clear to me that this is what I want to do for a living – help suffering addicts find hope in recovery,” explained Lytle. “Going through treatment here myself, I know the pain and struggles that our clients are going through. Being able to relate and help them through it is very rewarding and I want to continue doing that.”

Lytle is very passionate about his career at MRHC because he has personally reaped the benefits from the Recovery Center’s treatment and urges other addicts to seek help. “The reason I love my job is because I get to help people save their lives,” stated Lytle. “I went through treatment here in 2019. My life was a complete disaster and I had very little hope that things could get better. The Recovery Center showed me that there is hope and gave me the tools to save my life. I could not have done it without the Recovery Center. Treatment was such an eye-opening experience for me. I want to continue helping those who suffer addictions find the same hope that I was given. It’s pretty amazing to see someone come into treatment feeling hopeless and broken, and then watch them transform into a new person full of joy and hope,” Lytle explained.

The saying ‘Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life,’ rings true for Lytle. “I like working at the Recovery Center because when I get up in the morning, I am excited to go to work. I had never had that feeling before, so it is special,” exclaimed Lytle. He boasts that the best thing about working at MRHC is the easy-going and supportive environment. “It makes work enjoyable and that’s a pretty cool thing.”

“My role at the Recovery Center continues to expand the longer I work here,” explained Lytle. When Lytle was a counselor tech, he was responsible for taking clients to outside meetings and facilitating group sessions, along with various other client needs. “I have recently been promoted to counselor and my role here has expanded. I now get to help our clients more than before by having my own clients that I work with on an individual basis. When it comes down to it, I am here to provide guidance and support for our clients so that they can start a new life in recovery,” stated Lytle.

The biggest issue Lytle wants to bring to light is that addiction happens everywhere, including rural areas. “The Manning Recovery Center is unique. There is something special about this place. Many have said that this is the best treatment center in the state and other surrounding states,” explained Lytle. Although the Recovery Center at MRHC may be rural, Lytle believes that to be an advantage. “I think we stand out because we care about our clients. The groups are smaller here compared to other treatment centers and that makes for a more personal experience. I think we all do a great job making them feel at home and that provides the best environment for healthy growth.”

To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Kathy Freese Receives DAISY Award

Kathy Freese

Kathy FreeseKathy Freese, a registered nurse who works in the medical/surgical department, emergency room, and Recovery Center at MRHC as recently recognized for her exceptional role as a nurse and awarded the 2023 DAISY Award.

Freese’s excellent care as a nurse has never gone unnoticed – several patients nominated Kathy for the DAISY Award, sharing their praises about the great care she provides.

“Andrew and I could never thank you enough for all you did for us. You were a Godsend,” shared one patient. Another added that Kathy “is always kind, smiley, and non-judgmental. You could tell she really cares!!”

These testimonials, among many others, made Freese the perfect recipient for the 2023 DAISY Award, a program that honors and celebrates the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide every day. DAISY Award Honorees are recognized within their department, receive an award certificate, and are publicly recognized. Freese was surprised with the award by her co-workers and family on Wednesday, July 28th.

“Kathy is an empathic nurse who always puts her patients at the center of her nursing practice,” said Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “Thank you, Kathy for taking extraordinary care of those we serve!”

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the autoimmune disease, ITP, in 1999.

During his hospitalization, the Barnes family deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. More than 2,500 health care facilities in 15 countries and 50 states now honor extraordinary nurses with The DAISY Award.

Eligibility

All nurses who exemplify MRHC’s mission and values and demonstrate our vision daily are eligible to be nominated. DAISY Award honorees are nurses who provide compassionate and remarkable care while demonstrating clinical excellence. Anyone, including patients, patients’ family members, staff members, physicians, visitors, and volunteers, are welcome to nominate any nurse whom they believe is deserving of the award.

Jacobsen Sisters Make an Impact in their Community

Jacobsen sisters

Many employees at MRHC have shared that their coworkers feel like family and that the hospital is like a second home. For four employees in particular, it couldn’t be more true. Four of the Jacobsen sisters, Taya Vonnahme, Mikasia, Neeka, and Kamaya Jacobsen work alongside each other in various roles at MRHC.

Taya VonnahmeTaya, the oldest sister, currently serves as the Director of the Recovery Center at MRHC. After becoming a CNA and working at the Plaza throughout high school, Vonnahme received her LPN from Iowa Lakes Community College in 2009. After transitioning to MRHC full time as a discharge planning nurse in 2011, she continued to add jobs to her title until 2015 when she applied to go back to school for her RN. Once she graduated with her associate degree in nursing, she transitioned to a house supervisor at MRHC and obtained her BSN from Walden University in 2018. In 2020, she earned her master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner with support from the MRHC tuition assistance program.

“I knew I wanted to be in healthcare since I was young after watching the impact my family had on people in the community as healthcare providers,” shared Taya, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “Our parents worked for the local EMS, our father worked with the fire department, our uncle works as a paramedic in Carroll County, and our grandmother was a well-known nurse here at Manning Regional. We’ve had a lot of great influences.”Mikasia

A sentiment that Taya’s sister, Mikasia, echoes when she thinks about what encouraged her to pursue a career in the medical field. “My grandmother was a biginspiration,” said Mikasia, BSN, RN. “She was an ER nurse, and getting to dress up in her scrubs and play with her equipment at home is something I remember fondly.”

Mikasia currently works as a House Supervisor at MRHC. After joining the Carroll County Ambulance as a volunteer in 2016 and completing her EMT in 2017, she decided to start nursing school. She completed her CNA in 2018 and started working at MRHC. Through MRHC’s tuition assistance program, Mikasia received her LPN in 2020, her RN in 2021, and finally, her BSN in 2022.

“MRHC has been a blessing with easing the strain of nursing school by offering me tuition assistance,” Mikasia said. “The relief of not having to worry about affording classes, while in the middle of a pandemic, was another huge weight lifted off my shoulders. My co-workers and supervisors at MRHC were also supportive and pushed me to continue my education.”

In addition to their family members and coworkers being an inspiration for their careers and a solid support system, the sisters have always had, and still have, an important impact on each other.

Kamaya Jacobsen“My family is for sure my main support through my career choices, but my sisters are my biggest supporters. They are the ones I go to for any decisions or help I need along the way,” said Kamaya. “It was because of my sisters I got the opportunity to work at MRHC.”

Kamaya works as a CNA on the med/surg floor and a counselor tech in the Recovery Center. Two roles that allow her to frequently work alongside her sisters.

“Being able to work with my sisters is one of my favorite things. We have a unique bond that we get to bring into the hospital that tends to bring a lot of laughter and joy to our patients, clients, and coworkers when they experience us working together,” Kamaya said. “We are very close and do many things in our lives together so why would work be any different? We have a love for our community as well as our jobs, making what we do easier as we get to care for many people that we know in some way or another,” Taya added.

Yet another factor that played a large role in the girls choosing their career paths – knowing they could make a difference in the community they grew up in.

Neeka Jacobsen“I wanted to help my community in a way that would make an impact,” said Neeka, CADC, a CNA, EMT, and counselor tech in the Recovery Center. Mikasia adds, “there are highs and lows when working in a small town. The lows hit a lot harder as these are the people we have grown up with or have watched grow up themselves. I care a lot for my community, and I hurt when we have a loss. But the highs are worth it. Being able to provide great medical care and seeing progress for our patients is very rewarding. I really enjoy that I can share these experiences with my sisters and that when people come in, they know they can count on one of the Jacobsen/Genzen girls.”

Taya goes on to add that, “this community is where I was raised, and I’ve been shown how important community support is. This [career] is how I can continue to support my community.”

The women also share that, in addition to the support they receive from the community, each other, and their family, they would not be where they are without their team at MRHC.

“MRHC has allowed me to get the opportunity of working in different departments which has helped me expand my knowledge and skills over the last few years,” Kamaya shared.

Neeka adds that “they have helped with studying before licensing tests and have supported me through the transition to various roles throughout the hospital. I like the fun working environment as well as how much support we get.”

Taya points out that “the hospital has developed and changed, offering me different opportunities I never anticipated. My co-workers are truly the best reason to work at MRHC. In addition to that, the flexibility for my family and outside duties are always met.”

Mikasia emphasizes that “my co-workers are great and offer support in both my professional and personal life. I like that I am close to home and get to care for patients I know every day. I know I am where I am needed and that I am doing my part as a nurse to help provide excellent care here at MRHC.”

To join the MRHC team or learn more about the tuition assistance program, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.