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Hidden Heroes
People make the difference in any community and we're featuring a few of the best.
Hidden Hero: Cierra Sylvester
Workforce Planning Coordinator Cierra Sylvester has been an integral part of Henry Ford Jackson Hospital for 10 years. In her current role, she spearheads initiatives that build and maintain talent pipelines within the Jackson community. Cierra's efforts are centered on offering students and community members opportunities to explore careers in healthcare, while also helping current staff advance through educational and career growth.
Cierra finds her passion in helping others realize their aspirations. “I love my career because I get to connect with students, understand their needs, and help them on their path to success,” she shares. Her dedication to fostering partnerships and growth opportunities continues to strengthen both the hospital and the broader Jackson community.
Oscar Pritchard, Delivery Technician, Home Medical Equipment
Delivery technician Oscar Pritchard has dedicated 15 years to serving the Henry Ford Jackson Hospital and the surrounding community. With two decades of experience in home medical equipment, Oscar’s daily routine involves making anywhere from five to 15 stops, to deliver and set up essential medical equipment, ensuring patients and caregivers feel at ease.
Born and raised in Jackson, Oscar’s deep connection to his hometown fuels his passion for his work. He upholds the values of respect and inclusivity, finding joy in discovering common ground with his patients, helping them feel comfortable during challenging times.
Oscar attributes his success to taking a few extra minutes to listen to others. This practice allows him to fully understand his patients’ needs and concerns, fostering trust and a much greater sense of comfort. Through his dedication and compassion, Oscar exemplifies the true spirit of caregiving, ensuring his patients receive the equipment they need and true human connection, making a difference one person at a time.
Erin Richardson, RN, Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic
”For me, nursing isn’t just what I do; it’s who I am,” says Erin Richardson, a dedicated nurse at Henry Ford in Jackson, reflecting on a recent life-saving incident on her way home. Employed for more than eight years, Erin has worked in various departments and currently serves in the Ear, Nose & Throat clinic. Helping people every day is part of her role, but she didn’t anticipate helping a driver in a dire situation.
“I took a route home I never take, and it ended up getting backed up a little. As I was waiting to cross the highway, my first thought was, I hope there’s not an accident and I get caught in it.” As the line of cars got longer, Erin noticed a car coming at full speed, not paying attention to all the cars ahead standing still in traffic. The driver rear-ended the cars ahead, and the vehicle began to smoke. Without hesitation, Erin ran out into the intersection and began trying to pry the driver out of the smoking car, afraid it would catch on fire. She ended up helping the driver to safety with the help of a few other bystanders, and together they applied a tourniquet to stop bleeding. After calling 9-1-1, Erin and others – some clinical bystanders and some not – continued to check on all involved in the accident until the paramedics arrived.
The young driver made it out safely and Erin was contacted by the parents to thank her for her heroic effort on the scene. “I feel I’m very empathetic and I love people,” shared Erin. “Being a nurse is who I am.”
Mike Hagemyer, Supervisor, Central Sterile Processing
“I am proud to work at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, which has been an important part of my family history. My mother was an RN at the Hospital for 43 years, two of my sisters work here now and another was here for 15 years before going into private practice. As an Emergency Department nurse, Mom was scheduled to work every year on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. So it became a family tradition to get dressed up and meet her in the Hospital cafeteria for a holiday meal. I learned from a young age that no one chooses to be a patient, but the care we provide makes all the difference in how they feel. No matter what our job is, we can help make their experience better. I try to always present a positive attitude at work, because I know patients have bigger things on their minds than my personal feelings.”
Kalaigh Sullivan, Employee Safety Specialist
Kalaigh Sullivan is a champion for every Henry Ford Jackson team member’s safety at work. Working behind the scenes, Employee Safety Specialists like Kalaigh, dedicate their work to advocating for safety by mitigating risks, preventing injuries, and researching the safest resources and best practices available. “Our team is committed to the safety and welfare of all employes through prevention, education and awareness with the goal of reducing or eliminating workplace accidents,” Kalaigh says.
Kalaigh feels her empathy and concern for safety came from growing up in a big family. “I was always focused on or thinking about keeping my younger siblings safe, and that concern has deepened into a passion that now extends to every member of our team,” she says.
Safety risks exist everywhere in healthcare—from patient handling injuries to needlesticks, exposures, and falls. With workplace violence unfortunately on the rise globally, the risks are even greater. “Our team members continually put their own health and safety on the line for the care and well-being of others,” Kalaigh says. “One thing I hope to achieve—other than preventing injuries from happening—is to making staff feel safe and cared for.”
“Kalaigh displays her passion for team safety through her empathic demeanor, as she interacts with fellow team members and works to identify the root cause of an injury,” says Manager of Employee Health and Safety Chanda Gilbert. “Injuries are not an acceptable byproduct of our work, and Kalaigh is committed to the value employee safety brings to our organization.”
Brendon Ochadleus, Supply Technician, Equipment Management
No matter what your job is with Henry Ford Health, you are contributing to the better health and well-being of our patients and our communities. Supply Technician Brendon Ochadleus is proud to deliver essential equipment, like IV pumps, that fill important patient needs—and he brings positive energy to his work. “It feels good to know I am helping others with every delivery I make,” Brendon says. “Working with nurses and managers in all areas of Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, I find them to be friendly and appreciative. And that makes me want to do the very best job I can.” Brendon enjoys the variety his day provides, as well as the great exercise he gets from all the walking he does throughout the Hospital. He plans to continue his education with the help of Henry Ford Health’s Tuition Reimbursement Program. “I appreciate the opportunities I have to grow and advance my career within Henry Ford Health,” Brandon says.
Brittany Ojeda, RN, Operating Room Team Lead, Surgical Services
Born and raised in Jackson, I have always felt a profound connection to my community. Over 15 years of service at our local hospital has deepened this bond, transforming my patients, colleagues, and the wider community into an extended family. Each day, I am fueled by a passion for nursing that transcends the confines of the operating room. My role as a leader is driven not just by a desire to support my team, but also by an earnest wish to help my community members regain their health and return to their loved ones. This commitment to patient care is shared by my reliable team, whose accomplishments fill me with immense pride. Despite the numerous challenges we've faced, we've grown stronger with each hurdle, continually adapting to provide the best care possible. Our resilience is a testament to our shared dedication and the remarkable impact we’ve had on our patients' lives. I am incredibly proud of how my team has blossomed in the face of adversity. As we continue to navigate these trying times, I remain steadfast in my commitment to our shared mission. Here's to our ongoing journey, marked by continual growth, unyielding spirit, and the profound joy of making a difference.”
Interested in joining a team where our culture helps you become your best self? Explore career opportunities at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital and other locations throughout south-central Michigan.