Left: Kim Mathews, right, and her sister, Lisa, left. Right: Kim Mathews
With encouragement from her sister Lisa, Mathews began working at the hospital’s cafeteria, stepping into the same role Lisa once held before she went on to pursue a nursing degree.
Mathews was initially hoping to work in therapy, but it was not long before Lisa convinced her to consider nursing. Mathews recalls deeply admiring her sister’s unwavering commitment to the field.
“When Lisa went to nursing school, I just thought, ‘Oh my, how does she do all of that?’ But she did and she showed me that it was possible," said Mathews. “It was cool to see her go from a patient care technician to a licensed practical nurse to a registered nurse.”
Mathews began her own nursing journey, obtaining her associate degree to become a registered nurse (RN) and then her bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). While pursuing her education, she received support from AdventHealth’s educational assistance program and she completed her BSN in just one year, working alongside a fellow team member who was earning the same degree.
Sadly, a few years later, Mathews experienced the heartbreaking loss of her sister. Their special bond is one of the things Mathews said she misses the most, remembering the countless memories they shared traveling, going to concerts, and chatting on the phone.
“I miss everything about my sister and I miss just being together,” she said. “We didn’t get enough time to share nursing. I would have encouraged her to get her BSN and invited her to come and work at the hospital again with me.”
Knowing how important nursing was to Lisa, Mathews is determined to spend her life serving in the profession, caring for others on behalf of her sister and her own calling.
Since the start of her nursing journey, Mathews has experienced growth opportunities both personally and professionally. She’s participated in several nursing committees and is active in AdventHealth’s clinical ladder, the Nursing Professional Excellence Program (PEP).
Being a part of the PEP’s first year at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale, Mathews is already seeing the rewards of her hard work. She credits the program for being a great motivator and getting more nurses involved in leadership.
Mathews has served in the hospital’s mother-baby unit for 12 years and loves being able to care for moms just hours after delivery — what she calls “the happiest time after birth.”
“My favorite thing is truly knowing that the work we do each day matters and is impactful. I love being able to help people. Seeing their special moments is something that has never gotten old and adds joy to my day,” she said.
As she reflects on her career, Mathews can’t help but think of the impact Lisa had on her.
“I hope I am making my sister proud. She was a part of me,” Mathews said. “Who knows where I’d be if it wasn’t for her. I am grateful for that and I’m happy to honor her.”
Gianni Arroyo is a communications specialist at AdventHealth.
