UP Health System – Marquette Heroes | Susan Andary, AEMT

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) at UP Health System.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

Years ago a friend of mine got into a serious head-on car accident right in front of me. Ever since that day, I realized that I wanted to have the knowledge and ability to help people around me no matter what the situation was. 

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

Very few people in hospitals ever have a typical day. When working in the ambulance, I like to use the reference from Forest Gump, "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.” Truly, in EMS there are never two shifts the same. We need to prepare for all types of unique situations for the “just in case” scenarios.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I have worked in EMS for the hospital since July 2011. I started as an EMT and then as an AEMT. I worked primarily out of UP Health System – Marquette for ten years and for the last two years, I have worked out of UP Health System – Bell with occasional shifts picked up in Marquette.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?

Some of the biggest changes we have seen while working for EMS at the hospital is our EMS garage in Marquette. At the previous hospital location, our quarters were smaller and our ambulances were kept in different locations. At the new hospital, everything is in one place. I also enjoy working longer shifts now and fewer days per month.   

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?

Outside of work, you may find me on the pickleball court or volunteering as a co-coordinator for the central Upper Peninsula Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, which helps first responders deal with traumatic events. I also enjoy doing home projects, and most of all, hanging out with my amazing family.

As far as my favorite local gem, it has to be anywhere around Lake Superior—the beautiful beaches and trails around it, particularly in the summer. It’s not a big secret—I am not a fan of our winters! 

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?

I absolutely love my job in EMS at the hospital. There's so much variety—our days are never the same, our crews do a really great job, and taking care of patients on their worst days is truly an honor and a privilege.