National Kidney Month – Laurie Somers

March is National Kidney Month, a time to raise awareness for kidney disease and the thousands of Americans who will be diagnosed with kidney disease each year. While many know about the critical role our heart and lungs play in our body, less is known about our equally important kidneys. The kidneys are the body’s chemical factories, filtering waste and performing vital bodily functions that impact red blood cell production and blood pressure.

At Fort Sanders Regional, the nurses on our nephrology unit focus on treating patients with various kidney diseases. Today, we are spotlighting Laurie Somers, a shift leader in the nephrology unit. Read more about Laurie below.

Where are you from?

I’m originally from Virginia.

How long have you worked at Fort Sanders Regional?

I have worked at Regional for 6 years.

Tell us a little bit about your job at FSR?

As a nurse in the nephrology unit, I take care of patients who are undergoing dialysis, are in renal failure or have other kidney disorders.

What is something that is unique about working on the nephrology floor?

In our unit patients are very critical and have a lot of complex medical issues that go along with their kidney issues. We must be very attentive to their needs. 

What do you enjoy the most about working on 3W?

We all work as a team. We are like a family and all really get along with each other. 

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I like to spend time with my dog. I also really like to garden and can vegetables.

What is your favorite food?

I am a chipaholic!

What is your favorite movie?

Titanic