“I love the people here and believe in the mission; the work I do here feels like a calling.”
Before working at CHCC, I had worked as a school nurse and in a hospital, both out of state.
I moved back to Lynden in 2015. Initially, I chose CHCC because of its location. I grew up here and wanted to work and live near my family. The work hours and benefits package provided through CHCC also matched my needs.
In July 2015, I was hired into the role of minimum data set (MDS) coordinator. Being the MDS coordinator blended my nursing skills with the business side of health care. I loved the role and intended to stay put.
Then, in late 2019, during my weekly Bible study group, a speaker asked the following: “When was the last time God asked you to do something that made you say, ‘What?!’”
The next day, the assistant director of nursing role opened, and I immediately suspected it was my “What!?” moment. This was further confirmed as I continued to pray and various staff members encouraged me to apply for the position. Accepting the role of the assistant director of nursing felt like a calling.
I have stayed at CHCC for the people and the work environment. Watching my co-workers use such patience and care while serving those we care for and seeing the dedication of family members visiting and volunteering day after day—this is something I’m proud to be a part of.
Sorrow and joy collide in such a sweet and tender way as the end of life draws near; each person who lives here is cared for by family members, volunteers and staff with such dignity and grace.
I am so grateful to be part of the team at CHCC—a team that believes in offering the best life and experiences we can for our elders, the people who teach us so much about life and living—because honestly, when you’re 102 years old, you know something about living!
If you are exploring the idea of working as a nurse at CHCC, know that there will be moments of overwhelm—found in any nursing role at any facility—but also fun. You will have a great team behind you that strives to meet the needs of the care center while supporting and honoring each other with grace, a lot of laughter, and compassion. I hope that you will consider advancing your career at Christian Health Care Center.