Celebrating RHA’s Longest Tenured Nurse for National Nurses Week
May 8, 2023
RHA’s longest tenured nurse , Marietta “Cookie” Lofton , is celebrating 43 years at the place Where Humans Bloom! This National Nurses Week, RHA express es our profound gratitude for Cookie and all our nurses dedicate d to provi ding excellent care for the people we serve . We asked Cookie a few questions to get to know her better.
Describe your role with RHA and overall industry experience.
Cookie: I began my career with RHA in 1980 as a Direct Care staff member on 3rd shift. Over the years, I have been fortunate to fulfill various roles with the Bear Creek facility as an LPN and RN. Currently, I am the RN Team Leader on Blue Bayou. I feel that my integrity, trust, and loyalty to others within the Bear Creek organization has been influential in developing a better medical team and therapeutic relationships with the individuals and families we serve.
Why nursing? Tell us what inspires you about your work with RHA.
Cookie: I had never considered a career in nursing, but I feel God always puts the right people in my path to steer me in the right direction. One day while assisting a nurse, she told me that I should become a nurse because of my enjoyment in helping others. So, I began my journey to become the nurse that I am today! I became an LPN in 1991, a RN in 1999, and earned my BSN in 2008.
Tell us about a time you made a difference in someone’s life through your work.
Cookie: Every day that I have a chance to advocate, promote positive choices, and encourage independence, I feel that I have made a difference in an individual’s life. Throughout my tenure at Bear Creek, I have had opportunities to empower and enrich the lives of individuals who inspire me every day; their unconditional love still melts my heart and makes me smile!
Outside of RHA, what are your passions and hobbies?
Cookie: My faith in God and family are two of my strongest passions. I love being grandma to my granddaughter and grand dog. My hobbies include curling up with a good book, shopping for a great sale, or watching Lifetime and Hallmark movies.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career making a difference in the lives of others, visit rhajobs.com and join our team of dedicated professionals at RHA – Where Humans Bloom!