Empowered to make a difference

By Claire Kiger

Health care is all about making a difference by helping other people. At St. Luke’s, this is accomplished with a diverse team in a variety of roles. Here are a few stories showcasing who fills these roles and what they love most about their work.

Leah, Medical Assistant, Cardiology

“We like each other. We support one another,” Leah said about her coworkers. “It puts patients at ease and makes every day enjoyable.”

Leah’s main roles include rooming patients, checking vitals, preparing charts, performing EKGs and scheduling follow-up appointments. But she said, by far, the best part of her job is the people she works with.

Teamwork and quality are the St. Luke’s core values that mean the most to her.

“This is not a job anyone could do on their own. Teamwork is so important,” she said, “and quality is vital. We strive to do our absolute best for our patients.”

Ashley, Scheduling Representative, Centralized Scheduling

Ashley loves helping patients get the care they need. She has lots of stories, but one stands out as particularly rewarding.

“I had a patient call to schedule an injection for extreme back pain,” she said.

He was about to go on a trip. However, his pain was so bad that he was on the verge of cancelling. The kind of appointment he needed can take some time to set up, but Ashley wanted to do whatever she could to help. She was able to get him in the next day. He went on his trip pain-free.

“After he came home, he called to thank me,” she said. “It’s so rewarding to be able to help people.”

Leah, Linen Porter, Housekeeping

Leah delivers linens in St. Luke’s Hospital.

“I love working here,” she said. “What we do in our department is crucial. If there isn’t clean laundry, we can’t care for patients.”

When Leah is out and about, she enjoys interacting with patients and visitors.

“Just this week I saw a woman struggling to find her way, so I stopped to help her,” Leah said. “Other times, I strike up a conversation when I’m in the elevator with people. It makes work fun.”

Pat, Home Health Aide, Home Care and Hospice

In her role, Pat cares for some of St. Luke’s most vulnerable patients in their homes.

“I love being able to provide personalized care in this way,” Pat said. “I aim to connect with each person. I want them to know that I care.”

Pat loves the opportunity to brighten someone else’s day.

“Even during hard times,” Pat said, “I try to leave people smiling.”

Lisa, RN, Care Coordinator, Palliative Care

Lisa is known for her hard work, kindness and optimism. When she talks with patients, she looks for ways to bring them peace and hope.

“The emotional side of caring for someone is so important,” she said. “Patients are so much more than the symptoms they’re dealing with.”

Lisa chose St. Luke’s because of the mission: “The Patient. Above All Else.” She hasn’t once been disappointed.

“It’s so much more than a paycheck,” she said. “It’s about taking care of others. I love it.”

Amber, Social Worker, Case Management

Amber connects with patients right before they are discharged from the hospital.

“I really enjoy meeting them, and helping them feel supported and understood,” she said.

Discharge planning can include anything from coordinating community resources to home health care. Amber and her colleagues make sure plans are in place and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

Amber appreciates the positive atmosphere. “Even during a pandemic, I have always felt supported by my team,” she said. “That makes it easier to stay patientfocused.”

Working at St. Luke’s

Each day, these women come to work and play a role in something big. By being part of a comprehensive healthcare system, they are empowered to help others and make a lasting difference in their community.

If you’re interested in joining the St. Luke’s team, see the wide variety of roles available at slhduluth.com/ careers. D

Samantha Roffers, a Moose Lake writer, believes it’s important to shop for things you love and feel comfortable in. Everyone’s style is unique and that’s what makes it so special.

Hello, dear readers!

Welcome back to Fashions By Sam. If this is your first time reading, a very warm welcome! Thank you for being here.

For this issue, we headed to Esko, Minnesota to visit Dot and Anne Boutique. I love seeing the way small business owners create unique spaces for their products and this wonderful gem is no exception. From the outside, this business appears to be a beautiful family home, nestled between banks of snow and trees. However, when we stepped inside, I was blown away by the clever layout and huge amount of inventory inside.

Although the ladies of Dot and Anne were mid-renovation when we visited, their vision for the future was very clear. Racks of beautiful clothes and accessories adorned the rooms within. Music played softly and handmade candles flickered gently as we perused the racks. While these ladies are currently shopping by appointment only and over Facebook Live, a huge stack of readyto-ship items was proof of a booming business.

Dot and Anne features clothing that ranges from ultra trendy to timeless and classic. They carry a wide array of bags and jewelry along with their clothes, which makes styling a complete outfit a breeze. These ladies put so much love into everything they sell, it is very apparent they are proud of the products they offer and stand behind them. I had so much fun visiting with these wonderful gals and shopping their racks, I just know you will too! D

by Sam

My first look caught my eye immediately. This top was buttery soft and so flattering. The flared sleeves are unique and an adorable touch. The fit was just right, cinching in around the waist and opening ever so slightly around the midsection — perfect top for those of us who are pear shaped or conscious about our bellies. The light blue color and delicate floral pattern is perfect for spring and cool summer nights.

This second look was one of my favorites. We all know by now I am a creature of comfort most of the time and I definitely gravitate towards comfy clothes. This trendy, oversized graphic tee paired with leggings and a super soft flannel is the perfect casual outfit. This look is made for running errands, traveling, or a casual date. If you get too warm you can tie the flannel around your waist, giving you some shape and extra booty coverage while still staying on trend and cute.

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For this third look I switched out the flannel for an oversized denim jacket. This jacket was so reasonably priced and perfect for any occasion. Roll the sleeves and throw it over a dress for the perfect spring jacket or layer it with a flannel to bring it into fall. Not everyone is a fan of flannels or plaids and I think this is a perfect alternative. The classic denim jacket will never go out of style and can be worn so many different ways.

And last, but certainly not least, the ultra comfy hoodie. Who doesn't love a classic hoodie and who says your favorite hoodie has to be frumpy? This super soft hoodie is perfect for all seasons. With a gorgeous floral pattern and beautiful orange you could pair this with a ton of shoes, bottoms and accessories. Dress it down with leggings, sneakers and a cap or dress it up with your favorite skinny jeans, boots and jewelry. This hoodie also featured oversize sleeves which gives it an adorably casual vibe and maximizing comfort. 3 4

One thing I really loved about Dot and Anne was their impressive size inclusive shopping. They have racks of clothes from XS to plus size and everything in between. No matter what your body type or comfort level may be, I am sure you can find something from this charming boutique that makes you feel beautiful — I know I certainly did. It is obvious that these ladies care deeply so everyone who shops with them leaves happy.

This look makes my cowgirl heart so happy. I am a sucker for all things western and this ultra soft cardigan immediately caught my eye. With its flowy shape, beautiful burnt orange pop of color and fun pattern, it was a must for me. I paired this with leggings and a lacy orange tank top. This gorgeous top could easily be paired with jeans or slacks to dress it up or down. You can really get creative and play with your jewelry and accessories while wearing this neutral beauty.