WNA has so many incredible members making a lasting impression in nursing. We think it’s about time that everyone else knows about our incredible members, too. That is why we have a Member Spotlight series on our website. This is the space to showcase your talent. Tell us about your remarkable research, your touching stories, the obstacles you’ve overcome. Show us—and the world—what it really means to be a Wisconsin Nurse. Fill out your form to be spotlighted! WNA Member Spotlight Questionnaire

For our next member spotlight, we have Teresa Loftsgaarden!

What is your name?

Teresa Loftsgaarden, MSN, RN, OCN

What have been your roles at WNA / how long have you been a member?

I have been a member twice combining maybe four years total.

Where do you work?

Sacred Heart Hospital, Eau Claire, WI

What is (or was) your job title?

Oncology Nurse Navigator

What do (or did) you do in your job?

As a navigator, I am part of the cancer care team for oncology patients. I clarify and reinforce information about diagnosis and treatment and assist patients in working through barriers to care.

Tell us a story from your job.

Every day is a new story.

What do you do in your free time?

Read, travel, camp, grandchildren

What are you passionate about?

Eliminating barriers to oncology care for our patients.

Brag to us about something you’ve done in your career.

I have taught nursing and presented research in London, England, but my favorite nursing job before my current one was working as an occupational health nurse for Miller Brewing.

What does being a nurse mean to you?

Our roles have expanded so much in the 34 years of my nursing career. No one nurse will ever know it all. Nor can it all be taught in a 2yr, or 4yr program. Nurses must always be perpetual students, even if it means going out of your comfort zone. If you don’t want to be a lifelong learner, then nursing is not the profession for you.