“I like working for Lakeside. People know you and they’re friendly. Because it’s small, they’re attentive to you – whether you’re a patient, or working as an employee.”
Kathy Maines, Certified Nursing Assistant
What does 25 years working at Lakeside Health System add up to? Hundreds of patients, thousands of smiles, and a great deal of satisfaction. That’s what Kathy Maines has found during her rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Lakeside’s Beikirch Care Center.
Years ago, after her three children began high school, Kathy decided to embark on a nursing career. Her first job, as an aide at Lakeside’s original nursing home, lasted for a decade.
“I really enjoyed helping people regain their ability to walk,” Kathy says. “That was incredibly rewarding!”
Today, Kathy adds to her extensive experience by acquiring new skills. She recently joined the Restorative Nursing Program and works with residents providing them with walking and exercise. Kathy understands it's the little things that count. “Taking them for short walks or helping them find easier ways to dress really enhances their quality of life. When they get a big smile on their face it makes me feel just great!”
When she shares her knowledge with new staff, Kathy's philosophy of care is simple: recognize that most of the residents are permanent and do whatever is needed to ensure their comfort.
Kathy says Lakeside is a good place to work. “You can get lost in a big health system, but because we’re small there is a lot of teamwork. Everyone knows you and you feel like what you do really counts.”