5 Questions with a Decatur-Based Nurse Practitioner

Occupation: Advanced practice registered nurse (nurse practitioner)

Why did you become a nurse practitioner?

I love nursing. I had a dream, and I was able to fulfill it. I became a licensed practical nurse when I was 18. I was able to see a nurse practitioner in action, so it was pretty cool to see that. Then, I went back to school and became a registered nurse. I have a bachelor’s and a master’s. I think I was 43 when I graduated as an advanced practice registered nurse, or a nurse practitioner.

How long was schooling?

It took me a year to become an LPN, and it took a couple years to get my associate’s degree and become an RN. It took me five years to get my bachelor’s, because I went to school part time. My master’s also took a couple of years.

What is your favorite part about the job?

What’s the longest time a patient has been seeing you?

I have had patients who have been coming to me for 22 years. I started in Sullivan in 1996, when it was St. Mary’s. I stayed in Sullivan until St. Mary’s completely switched to HSHS.

I have been at HSHS Medical Group Family Medicine in Decatur for five years, but I have been with the overall company for 22 years.

I have been in the field for almost 47 years now.

What do you recommend for people who wish to start living a healthier lifestyle?

Move. Exercise and watch what you eat. Eat less refined foods, reduce salt consumption and eat more fruits and vegetables.