December 21, 2020
Ever since she was a child, Chelsea Kullen has known she has wanted to be a nurse. As an RN coordinator at Bickford Assisted Living of Cedar Falls, the residents bring joy and meaning to her life.
How did you get started in the long-term care profession?
Ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a nurse. I was a CNA at Bickford Assisted Living while going through nursing school and then worked in the hospital as an RN. God led me back to my Bickford family as the RN coordinator at Bickford of Cedar Falls.
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
It is so rewarding. Working with these residents every day makes me appreciate the little things in life. My residents always bring a smile to my face, offer the best advice and give me a better perspective on life.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
Health care is such a rewarding profession – particularly long-term care. Caring for the elderly is a blessing and I am so grateful I am able to do this every day. They have the best stories and life lessons to share.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also help you outside of work?
Life is so precious and tomorrow is never promised. My residents and grandparents grew up in a generation where they worked hard for everything that they had; nothing was ever given to them and they were appreciative and thankful for all they had. I try to step back from the reality of the current world and try to live a simple life like they did.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I love spending time with my family and friends. My husband and I have an almost one-year-old little girl named Riley and a chocolate lab named Yadi. We love being outdoors!
What is your favorite quote and why?
“’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord. ‘Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 29:11. This is my favorite Bible verse because it is a daily reminder for me to know that God is in control of my life and I trust Him and the plans He has for me.
I also love, “A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.” To me, this means be kind to everyone. Everyone has a battle they are fighting in life and your flame will lose nothing by complimenting, helping and simply saying, “hello, how is your day?” to someone with a smile on your face.
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