Kyle Berry assists and guides stroke patients when they need the support the most. As a Stroke Patient Navigator at Elkhart General Hospital, Kyle walks patients through their journey from the emergency department to recovery at home. "I review results of testing and provide education on the risk factors that ultimately led to the stroke, and what can they do to reduce the risk of another stroke," he says. During Stroke Awareness Month, we want to remind the community to BE FAST and call 911 immediately if you see someone experiencing the signs of stroke. Kyle shares much more in this WVPE interview about stroke prevention, risk factors, and how stroke navigators make a real difference in patient outcomes. Listen to the full interview: https://bit.ly/4kbUpDG (fb)

After spending six years as a medical assistant, Ashley Schoetzow recognized healthcare was her true calling. So, she went back to school to become a registered nurse, joining Three Rivers Health as an emergency nurse in 2020 before moving to obstetric care. "Being a nurse was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. It has changed my life for the better.” For Ashley, the most rewarding part of being a nurse is seeing the difference that she can make in people’s lives. "When you work in labor and delivery, it can be one of the scariest times in a woman's life. But to be able to encourage them and witness the miracle of birth over and over again is one of the most rewarding experiences ever." She vividly remembers one of her first deliveries. The patient and spouse were so thankful and full of happiness and love that it just emanated throughout the room. In that transformative moment, Ashley realized, "I am in the right place, and I absolutely love this job." Connecting with heart to Ashley means that she is always placing herself in her patient's shoes, understanding where they are coming from and how she can help and support them in their decisions. "Allowing myself to connect with patients has helped me care for them in tremendous ways." Among her most profound professional experiences was during the pandemic's early days in the emergency department, where she met an elderly patient who was experiencing a stroke and had a do not resuscitate order. It proved to be an emotional time for everyone there. "Her husband of 50-plus years looked at me, gave me a hug and thanked me for not leaving their side while they said goodbye. It was at that moment I knew that I chose the right profession, because I was meant to be that support person, to reassure them that they had made the best decision for themselves. I will carry that hug and reassurance with me forever." (fb)