In honor of National Nurses Week, we want to take the time to honor our Nurses at Woodstone. Nurses perform some of the most difficult tasks and serve as the first point of contact for most of our residents. National Nurses Week honors their sacrifices and reminds us to thank the medical professionals who keep us healthy.
Interviews:
Janna Bjur
What is your role as the Clinical Supervisor, RN?
My role as the Clinical Supervisor is to manage the care of residents, communicate with residents/families/providers/staff, and training/supervising staff.
How long have you been at Woodstone?
I have been at Woodstone for seven years at the end of April.
Why did you choose this career?
I chose a career in nursing because I enjoy being around people and helping others. I thought I wanted to be a Pediatric Nurse initially but quickly knew that wasn’t the path I wanted to take during nursing school. I had worked in the nursing home setting initially as a CNA, enjoyed the elderly and the stories/experiences they have to share. I continued to work at the nursing home throughout nursing school- LPN and RN; enjoying each of the new roles.
What is your favorite hobby outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with family and friends. Watching and playing sports; basketball is my favorite!
Any fun facts about you or secret talents that you have?
- I played college basketball at Bethany Lutheran College; unfortunately had to call it quits early due to a knee injury.
- I help coach my son’s traveling basketball team during the winter months.
- I had the privilege to travel to the Czech Republic and Germany with my high school choir.
- I have five siblings- four older brothers and one younger sister.
Favorite memory at Woodstone?
Some of my favorite memories at Woodstone are meeting the variety of people throughout the years(residents, family, and staff), participating with our residents at the community events like- Music in the park, Dairy Days, etc. Other memories are evening campfires in the summertime, our annual Valentine meal with the crowning of King/Queen and the annual Christmas meal with a visit from Santa.
What makes Woodstone a great place to work?
It is a small family-like community where you get to know the residents, their families as well as the staff and their families. I have always said the reason I wanted to work at Woodstone is because this community is alive!! Woodstone really tries to keep the community busy and active with fun activities inside of Woodstone as well as the outside community.
Lindy Soderberg
What is your role?
My role is to improve the quality of care for those at Woodstone. To make sure not only are their needs met, but to make sure their needs are met in a professional and timely manner.
How long have you been at Woodstone?
2 months
Why did you choose this career?
It is important for me to be able to help those in need and make a positive impact of the lives of others.
What is your favorite hobby outside of work?
I enjoy traveling around the US.
Any fun facts about you or secret talents that you have?
I use to race cars and drive demolition derbies for many years.
Favorite memory at Woodstone?
Teaching others new skills. I love watching it “click” when they learn a new skill.
What makes Woodstone a great place to work?
The excitement of residents about the little things in life. It makes me slow down and appreciate the little things in life that can often fly right by us.
Kelly Mickolichek
What is your role as the RN?
I am on-call and serve on an as-needed basis. Most residents know me as the “covid tester” as I usually do the required breakout testing. I also help out in the Building when Janna needs a day off.
How long have you been at Woodstone?
Several years, I honestly don’t remember!
Why did you choose this career?
I have always wanted to be a nurse. I love to help people!
What is your favorite hobby outside of work?
I like to go on bike rides, watch my son play hockey and travel. It is my goal to go on a trip every year.
Any fun facts about you or secret talents that you have?
Before I was a Nurse I worked as a Corrections Officer in a county Jail, a very different job!
Favorite memory at Woodstone?
The Luau party outside. The residents had a GREAT time and it was fun to see the staff let loose a little and dance the Macarena for the residents.
What makes Woodstone a great place to work?
The atmosphere is great, both staff and residents are here because it is a great place. Residents like to get out of their rooms and do things with each other. The staff will come in on their days off to visit and participate in activities and are viewed as family to the residents.
At Woodstone, we are so thankful for their kindness, support and compassion during time of uncertainty our residents. All nurses are simply incredible, thank you for everything you do for our community! Thank you to all of the nurses out there who are literally putting their lives on the line for people! We appreciate every single one of you.
Best,
Danielle Morrow
Marketing Specialist
