Why We Care

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From our newest staff members to our longest employed, each person has a different journey and steps up to make a difference in our residents’ lives. It takes a special kind of individual to work in this field, and we honor these selfless healthcare workers. Their daily tasks include showing our residents personalized care through our person-centered approach, which is individualized and unique to each resident.

Follow along as we showcase the hearts and souls at our skilled nursing facility by asking our teams how they show their care to our residents and why they chose the career path of healthcare/long-term care. Find out why a handful of our employees are so passionate about being a caretaker by exploring their answers.

Josh Ousley, Restorative Therapy Clinician

“Growing up, I always had the ambition to help others and to work with a team. Healthcare has given me the opportunity to do just that and more. Working with the HC Therapy Team, I have learned that we all share a common goal; to help our patients improve their mobility to return home to their families.

My favorite part about work is that I have the chance to build relationships with our patients and their families. The connections are built on trust. They trust me with their care and that is the highest honor.”

Shannon Merrick, Activities Aide/STNA

“I have been at Hickory Creek for many years. Over time, I have built friendships with our residents and their families. It feels like a second home, and my colleagues feel like family. As a team, we have grown together and created friendships that aid in our ability to work and communicate as a team. What drives me most is knowing that at the end of the day, I was able to bring joy to our residents when their family is not able to be here.

The best part of my job is putting smiles on our residents' faces while providing their favorite activities to pass the time.”

Trudy Kazee, STNA

“I have been with Hickory Creek for 32 years. Over those years, I have met and taken care of many residents, each one more different than the next. I work in the Dementia Unit and love taking care of the elderly. I enjoy learning about their lives and where they have been. The best part of my job is spending time with the residents and getting to know their personalities.”

Annie Young, STNA

“Helping people is my passion. As an STNA, I have had the opportunity to help people when they need it most. Working in the Rehab Unit, patients are here to gain back the strength that they have lost. I enjoy helping them with the things that bring a smile to their face for a minute, even though their journey to recovery may be long.”

Missy Arlington, Dietary

“Hickory Creek is my home away from home. I have worked here for 30 years, and my mom became a resident here a couple of years ago. My favorite part of my job would have to be my coworkers and the residents. They help me stay sane. Healthcare has taken such a tremendous turn since the pandemic started, and this team has managed to work through the challenges together with a positive outlook.”

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