Lori Christensen, AGACNP-BC

Practice philosophy: I will treat you with the same time, dedication, and commitment I would invest on those closest to me.

What are you passionate about and why? As an Oncology Nurse Practitioner, it becomes more than just simply treating a disease. You become an advocate for your patients, making complex diagnosis understandable to the patient along with providing great compassion and support.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? Gardener/Florist.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? My passion to care for those in need and desire to know the why behind the impacts of illness on the body.

What is something you have learned from your patients? I have learned that an individual will heal and can overcome any medical timeline and expected outcome for an illness. I've learned not to make assumptions based on a written plan only.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? A challenge in this career is when patients choose not to go forward with a treatment plan. As a provider knowing the positive effect treatment may have, a challenge is allowing the patient to choose their own path.

What is your personal health goal? Try for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? Learning to take time for myself. If I am not rested and grounded in my own self, I can not be present to those in my care.

What are you most proud of? I have been a RN for 23 years, worked nights to be home for my 3 daughter and spouse during their younger years. Though a little later than planned, I still followed through with my goal to return to school and obtain my nurse practitioner degree.

What are a few of your personal achievements? Mother of 3 daughters, 15, 17, 19, achieving my NP degree, and leading successful projects, like mock code training within my previous position. Overcoming my own personal cancer journey.