National School Nurse Day was Wednesday, May 12. In honor of this special day, we are featuring health assistants from our Legacy community and the wonderful work they do.
Meet Olivia Martinez, Health Assistant at Legacy – North Chandler:
How long have you been a health assistant? When did you begin working with Legacy?
I have been a school nurse for five years and in the pediatric field for over 16 years. I started my journey with Legacy – North Chandler in July of 2016.
What do you love most about being able to help Legacy teachers and families?
I love caring and helping every student. I treat them all as if they are my own and love knowing I am here if they need help.
Do you have a favorite story or memory from your time as a health assistant?
Every year is a new adventure. One of my favorite things has been watching all the students grow over the years.
What work or life philosophy informs how you succeed? What motivates you?
Kindness is one of the many things that I like to lead by. I feel that by being kind and compassionate I can make a difference in someone’s day.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?
My favorite hobbies include crafting, cooking, traveling and spending time with my family.
How long have you been a health assistant? When did you begin working with Legacy?
I have been at Legacy going on 10 years. I started working at Legacy Avondale in 2010.
What do you love most about being able to help Legacy teachers and families?
Making them laugh and smile throughout the day.
Do you have a favorite story or memory from your time as a health assistant?
By far it is from my first year. A kindergarten student came in and was the first one to call me Dr. DeRisi. She then told me that she “broke her skeleton and doesn’t think she will make it.” The innocence in these kids is so beautiful.
What work or life philosophy informs how you succeed? What motivates you?
Every day I wake up, I don’t feel like I am coming to a job or a workplace. I am coming to a place where I am around family and friends to fulfill hearts and minds with care and compassion. My other motivation is the students, because if I miss a day they know!
What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?
Hmm, that’s a tough one. Anything with water. Fishing, lake, or pool.