Dee Blackwell, Registered Nurse, has worked for Hospice of Southern Illinois since 2013. Dee has held a few different positions within the company: field staff nurse, admission nurse, and currently, the Regulatory Compliance Quality Specialist. Dee’s journey to hospice care really began when her daughter, who was then an employee of Hospice of Southern Illinois, thought Dee should give hospice care a chance. Dee previously worked in a fast-paced Emergency Department where the focus was triage, treatment, and expediting the patient to the next step of care. Dee decided staying home and possibly volunteering somewhere was where her heart was leading, however, she decided to follow her daughter’s lead. Dee added, “Compassionate care and a dedication to one’s patients and workplace is the cornerstone for success no matter what type of nursing you pursue.”
“I have truly enjoyed each aspect of the jobs I have had while here.” She does highlight her current team, the Regulatory Compliance department, which is made up of excellent people. This is a group that truly cares about others and the ongoing day-to-day operations of Hospice of Southern Illinois. Dee is able to see results of policies and regulations that directly affect the care of each patient that we serve. Dee appreciates being able to make a positive difference for each patient and that’s what it’s all about to her.
When Dee isn’t working, her favorite thing to do is be anywhere with her family. Dee has a two-year-old granddaughter, Riley, who especially lights up her life. Dee’s favorite quote is “Life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” We at Hospice of Southern Illinois thank Dee for the many important roles she has played in helping our organization move forward!
