Happy Nurses Week to our incredible nurses throughout our Mission Health communities!
Every year on Nurses Day, we pause to recognize the extraordinary individuals who form the foundation of our healthcare system and Mission Health—our nurses. They are caregivers, advocates and educators. They are the strength our residents and families lean on every day.
At Mission Health Communities, our nurses embody compassion, skill, and an unwavering commitment to delivering care that uplifts and heals. Whether administering treatment, offering emotional support, or simply holding a resident’s hand, our nurses demonstrate the true meaning of service and dedication.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses,” could not be more fitting. Our nurses make the difference not only in the clinical outcomes of those they serve but in the overall spirit and culture of our communities. They remind us that healthcare is not just about medicine—it’s about human connection, empathy, and resilience.
This year, I interviewed Mission Health nurses to learn more about their stories and we are bringing you along for the journey!
What or who inspired you to become a Nurse?
Abe Ceesay, ADON—Edwardsville: “I choose to be nurse because I have a passion in helping people especially those in need such as the sick. I came from a family with a healthcare background, an older brother who is a cardiologist, a father who was a veterinarian, 2 sisters, one is a nurse midwife, and the other is an RN, two of my daughters are RN’s as well.”
Mindi Estes, BSN, RN—Regional Director of Clinical Services: “My mother was diagnosed with leukemia when I was in my twenties, a moment that shattered my world and forever changed my perspective. Watching her endure the ups and downs of her hospital stay, I was deeply moved by both the incredible moments of compassionate care and the heartbreaking instances where attentiveness seemed to falter. Those experiences ignited a fire within me—a fierce passion to ensure that every patient feels truly seen, cared for, and understood. They fueled my unwavering resolve to dedicate my life to healthcare, driven by the hope of making a profound difference in the lives of patients and their families, offering them the kindness, empathy, and support they so desperately deserve.”
Tatum Martinez, RN—Lincoln: “When I was little, my grandma and I would watch the tv show E.R. My favorite character on the show was Carol Hathaway. She was an amazing nurse, hard-working, trustworthy, and knowledgeable. She was so confident with her skills and her purpose. That drew me in and I knew then I wanted to be a nurse. I wanted to be that person for someone.
Ariel Winkler, CRC—Providence: “My journey to becoming a nurse was deeply inspired by my mother’s courageous battle with ALS. Watching her fight such a devastating illness showed me firsthand the profound impact compassionate, skilled nursing care can have on both patients and their families. It planted the seed in my heart to dedicate my life to helping others through their most vulnerable moments.
What is the importance of being a nurse?
Abe Ceesay, ADON—Edwardsville: “Nursing is a noble profession, and nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare. One of the wonderful things about being a nurse is to offer support and encouragement to patients and families during challenging times in their lives. One of the best things a nurse can do for a patient is to be simply present , just sitting by someone actively listening to them can make a difference in their lives.”
Mindi Estes, BSN, RN—Regional Director of Clinical Services: “Being a nurse is so much more than just technical skill; it’s a gift rooted in unwavering compassion, a heartfelt act of truly listening, and a fierce dedication to being a steadfast advocate for your residents. It’s about pouring your soul into every moment, embodying kindness and strength even when life’s trials feel overwhelming. In every challenge, it’s about rising to be the best version of yourself, driven by love, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to making a difference.”
Donna Crowley, ADON—Pratt: “The importance of being a nurse boils down to making a difference. Rogene Jarmer, one of my role models told me when I started nursing school, “It is the hardest and the smartest thing you will ever do.” She was right.
Susan Pittman—GA/TN Regional Vice President: “The most important aspect of being a nurse is making sure that the patients and resident get what they need and the care they deserve. Playing a crucial role in patient care.”
Why did you choose Mission Health?
Betty Muia, LPN—Lincoln: “Mission was the second place I applied for. I worked at Mission 11 years ago as a CNA and a bath aide. I LOVED everything about Lincoln Care and Rehab. Mission had a program called purchasing power. We got to buy stuff and pay every paycheck and that meant a lot to me as a CNA. I loved the place! The benefit was small and truly felt like a family. Nostalgia brought me back as a nurse.”
Tonia Middleton, DON—Downs: “I will say Mission Health chose us. I have been with my facility for 19 years. We have changed hands many times and I have done more than one role in the nursing department. I was a CNA, LPN, RN, and then the DON all in this same facility. Mission Health took over our facility and I have been very pleased working for this company. They do show their values within their company and taking care of their vendors and their residents.”
Angela Wahweotten, DON—Providence: “My experience during the interview tour of Providence Living Center is what sold me to Mission Health. I saw the CARES values in action with the administrator assisting residents, interacting with the residents, staff were welcoming. It felt like a big welcoming party from all just during an interview.”
Leslie Zimmerman-Black, BSN, RN—Director of Clinical Services: “Mission Health has provided opportunities for me to serve residents across many different long-term care settings, while also allowing me to follow my purpose: to care deeply, serve humbly, and always put people first. For that I am thankful.”
