Morgen Wells has a long title and the responsibilities to go along with it. She serves as Community Relations & Fund Development Specialist for Lakeport’s Sutter Lakeside Hospital, which essentially means she disseminates important information to the public, helps with the hospital’s philanthropic efforts and works to build support for the facility. In practice, it means Wells attends a lot of meetings and events, with some research and writing in between. Wells arrived in Lake County in June, a transplant from the east. She grew up in Ohio, but earned degrees in journalism and history from the University of Kentucky.
1. So, what do you think of Lake County?
I love it. My goal was always to retire somewhere warm and near water. I get to do that at 23. And whoever said there’s nothing to do in a small town was not paying attention.
2. What’s your favorite thing?
Oh, gosh — the peacocks that wander through my yard every morning. They are so funny. They have personalties of their own. OK, maybe I’m projecting. But they are fun.
3. You don’t have to worry if you get sick.
It’s true. Working here has been awesome. I feel like I’ve been adopted into the Sutter family. We’re co-workers, but we’re also friends.
4. That means your friends give you shots.
It’s easier to relax when a friend is giving you a flu shot. Oh — I felt so bad for her. I probably complained more than most people because I know her and can get away with it.
5. This is an important facility for the county. Does that mean more pressure?
I’ve noticed that all of my co-workers are passionate about their jobs and love what they do. That makes a difference. We know we are the primary care provider for a lot of people.
6. Did you ever think you’d be working in health care?
Oh, my gosh — never. I’m not clinical. The sight of blood freaks me out. But I’m learning a lot. I don’t think people know how awesome nurses are. During the Valley Fire some of our staff would work a 12 hour shift then go volunteer at the Moose Lodge.
7. What was the most difficult thing to learn?
I would say bridging the gap between the clinical side and layman’s terms. It’s almost better that I’m not clinical. I’m not afraid to ask physicians ‘what does that mean?’ I can explain it to other people. I love learning new things.
8. Hospitals do serious work. Do you guys ever get to smile?
We’re almost always smiling. Co-workers are always checking in on each other, asking how they are. It makes the easier. And it’s so much easier to be compassionate with people when you know them.
9. You know, some of us prefer to avoid hospitals.
Well, when people come in the hospital they are in a vulnerable situation. The staff understands this. We know it’s scary, that’s why we strive to be compassionate.
10. What’s the best part of your job?
Two things: I get to meet new people — I love meeting new people — and connect people to the causes they care about.
