Healthcare professionals have and always will be dedicated, hardworking, and dependable in times of crisis and in times of calm. This has never been more tested and true than with the COVID-19 pandemic. These often unsung heroes are on the frontlines, putting themselves at risk to take care of others in their time of need. 

The saying goes, “Not all heroes wear capes,” but in the case of these heroes, they do wear scrubs. We couldn’t be more proud of all healthcare workers, especially those who work at NeoPath Health clinics. To show our appreciation, we are introducing our new “NeoPath Healthcare Heroes” recognition program, to showcase some of these amazing professionals. 

This month’s honoree is Charlene Oftedahl! Charlene is the lead RN at Cedar Ridge Health Center and has worked in healthcare for 15 years. She started her journey when she was just a teenager, working as a housekeeper in a nursing home. That’s where she fell in love with the idea of helping people every day. She got her CNA license and later went on to get her nursing degree, stating, “I knew that enrolling in nursing school would be one of the best decisions I could make for my life.” 

Charlene’s “Why” 

She enjoys getting to help people become the best version of themselves, but for Charlene, it’s more than just helping people. She gets to be an educator, a helping hand, and a cheerleader for patients, all wrapped in one. 

“Her commitment to Cedar Ridge Health Center and the patients she serves is evident in the way she so lovingly cares for individuals and the clinic space,” said Katie Halsne, RN, Director of Clinical Operations at NeoPath Health. “It is a comfortable, inviting environment because of her!”

The Best Part of Charlene’s Job 

This was a tough one for Charlene to answer because there are so many aspects of her job that she enjoys. From developing close relationships with her patients to getting to use her organizational skills to keep the clinic running smoothly, she loves it all. But she said if she had to choose the “best” part, it would be the team that she is honored to work with. 

“Our team functions like a well-oiled machine and it truly makes coming to work completely effortless,” said Charlene. “The unique blend of our team members, the company, and our patients truly makes my job highly satisfying and enjoyable.”

Charlene’s Real-Life Hero 

We were curious to know if Charlene had any real-life heroes of her own. She said hands down her hero is her husband, Nick Oftedahl. 

“Nick is one of the most supportive, courageous, and selfless people that I know. He is an incredible leader. He is brave. He is my role model. He is my hero. My husband sacrifices himself for the safety and wellbeing of other people every single day. For this, I would say that my husband is MY real-life hero and I am beyond blessed to have him by my side to navigate life together.” 

Congratulations, Charlene! We can’t thank you enough for all that you do for your patients, your team, and healthcare as a whole. Thanks for being our real-life hero!