When Michelle had her tonsils removed at 5 years old, she never would have dreamed that the experience would unlock a life-long passion for healthcare. Watching the nurses and hospital staff after her procedure inspired her to provide that same care to others. Now as a National Clinical Educator at Aveanna, Michelle can fulfill the same goal she made as a 5-year-old, inspiring nurses to provide life-changing care to patients and families across the country.
When did your passion for healthcare begin?
I've wanted to be a nurse for as long as I can remember, but I specifically remember when I was 5 years old and completed an assignment of what we wanted to be in the future. I said with confidence that I would be a nurse, especially after I had my tonsils out and had to spend the night in the hospital with ice cream. I was hooked and never wavered from there!
What were your beginnings in the healthcare industry after school?
I graduated high school and went straight into nursing school in college. After getting my nursing license, I started as a pediatric nurse in a hospital for several years, then worked as a travel nurse. I later transitioned to working in a pediatrician's office.
How were you introduced to Aveanna?
After I took a break from nursing for a year to focus on my family, I started looking for an opportunity to get back into the field. I worked as a field nurse for about 5 years at Aveanna, then I moved up to be a Clinical Supervisor. After training for our nurses became more virtual with the pandemic, I jumped at the chance to transition to the National Clinical Education team. I'm so proud to be part of this team!
What does your role as a National Clinical Educator look like?
In my role, I teach one or two classes a day and schedule classes with nurses as needed. I also help to develop and update training. My experience as a field nurse at Aveanna gives me a special perspective because I was once in our nurses' shoes, so I know what they do in the field and what to expect. I love the opportunity to bring nurses on board with us, help families, and make a difference in other people's lives.
What does being a NCE mean to you?
I love the fact that what I'm doing is impacting families all over the United States and giving them what they need. Having a medically fragile child is a huge responsibility that requires support, and I love that what I do allows families to complete tasks outside of the home like going to the store or returning to work, all while knowing that their loved one is safe and cared for.