Deb Steele, RN, CRRN

At Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, rehabilitation nurse navigators provide support and assistance with common problems and challenges that arise during rehabilitation after a significant illness or injury. Nurse navigators are experienced registered nurses who have a thorough understanding of the health system and know how to access the variety of medical, rehabilitation, community and recreation resources. There is no additional fee for this service. 

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? In high school, I worked part-time as a receptionist at a medical clinic. I became interested in nursing as a career, even though it was out of my comfort zone.  I was very shy.  I reluctantly went to nursing school and learned that nursing was my calling. Working as a nurse has helped me grow in so many ways! 

Something I have learned from my patients is: People generally don’t set out to become resilient. Resiliency can only come by working through big challenges. It includes grieving losses, the humility of accepting help from others, and the joy of small successes on the way to larger goals. 

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is (and why): Communicating with people with brain injuries is often challenging, but when people feel that I am making efforts to understand and respond to them, and something “clicks,” it makes us both feel good! 

What is the best thing you’ve done for your health or the best health advice you’ve received? I’m a believer in daily prayer, keeping hydrated throughout the day, regular walking outdoors, and getting good quality sleep. All other health habits more easily fall into place if I’m able to practice these things every day. 

What are you most proud of? Raising our daughters to adulthood.  They are good, kind, service-oriented people who bring joy to the world.