October 19, 2023
Stacy Willard, assistant director of nursing (ADON) and Minimum Data Set (MDS) coordinator at Humboldt County Memorial Hospital – LTC, has worked in long-term care (LTC) for over 17 years and enjoys making the facility feel like home for her residents. Additionally, Stacy is a 2023 Care Initiatives Director of Nursing (DON) IHCA Foundation Scholarship recipient.
How did you get started in the long-term care (LTC) profession?
Seventeen years ago I started working in LTC as charge nurse as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). I ended up going back to school to become a registered nurse (RN).
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
I love hearing stories from the past and making others happy; it is very rewarding. I like making families feel like they don’t have to worry about their loved one in a nursing home. The residents and their families become your second family.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
Like I said in the last question, it is rewarding. Seeing residents happy at their last stage of life is a remarkable vision.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also help you outside of work?
With any job there can be challenges. LTC is very challenging and can make you a better person if you learn how to handle the ups and downs.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy spending time with my husband and two kids, ages four and seven. We enjoy fishing, gardening, animals and camping.
What is your favorite quote?
“Take the chance.” You only live once, so make it the best you can with what you have. If you don’t, you might regret it in the future.
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