Heroes of UPHS – Bell: Judith Smith, Registered Nurse

What is your title AND role at UPHS – Bell? I am a Registerd Nurse and have been at Bell for 43 years. 

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position? I was originally hired to work nights on the Medical Unit (3rd floor of old Bell). When Doctor Rao came, I transferred to Pediatrics and worked in Pediatrics for 12 years. Now this is my 30th year in the Surgery Department, within the surgical department I have had several different roles, currently I work in the outpatient area.

What does a typical day look like for you? My typical day could start out admitting a few patients, possibly recovering them in the PACU, discharging patients. In my free time, I may be calling patients to interview them for their upcoming surgery – explaining what they can expect during their surgical stay or making postoperative phone calls to see how our patients are doing after their procedure. Let’s not forget our Doctors – we try to meet all their needs and wants also.

Tell us a little bit about your family: In 1982 I married the love of my life. We were married for 34 years when he was called to join the Lord in Heaven. We have two daughters, Emily and JoHanna. I have a step-daughter Kristen and a step-son Kevin and 12 wonderful grandchildren ages 18 months to 17 years old.

What are some of your favorite hobbies? I enjoy being with my family, taking lots and lots of pictures – I have been known to be called “mamarazzi”. I enjoy making photobooks for family and friends (the reason for so many photos), and I have recently started playing scramble with friends.

What is your favorite local restaurant and why? I really like to eat good food (that’s why I have to be in TOPS (take off pounds sensibly)). Mama Mia’s – steak and lasagna; Congress – cauliflower crust pizza; Methodist Church pasty; Sherri’s Friday Night Fish Fry, the list goes on. I love to go to different restaurants and try new foods. 

What is your favorite part about working for UPHS – Bell? I really enjoy working in the Surgical Department. We are family, sharing joys and sorrows. Working with the community, getting patients ready for their surgical procedures and giving them a comforting hand, hopefully relieving some of their anxieties and worries about surgery and its outcome. Besides meeting the patients and families needs, our department helps each other – we are there for each other in good times and in sad times. We work for a GREAT Manager and appreciate the support of Upper Management.