June 10, 2021
My Why: Lynn Sieben, Respiratory Therapist
I unfortunately lost my dad when I was 17 to lung and throat cancer. It’s been a long time, but it still hits you in the heart. The thing about COPD patients like my dad is that they don’t get that way overnight. And they can be challenging because they’re chronically sick and they don’t know why they’re sick. So when I went to college, I didn’t know what I wanted to pursue, and then I remembered my dad. I thought about the respiratory therapists that took care of him. They would make him laugh and he liked their treatments. So I thought, “What about that?” I went that route and I’m glad I did because I see every patient as my dad. I want every patient to be treated like I wanted my dad to be treated. That’s my driving point and what gets me through.
I see every patient as my dad. I want every patient to be treated like I wanted my dad to be treated.
I’ve being doing this for 30 years and the beauty is that I get to spend time with patients – sometimes 6 to 9 weeks in an outpatient pulmonary rehab program. You get to help them understand their health and behavior changes. I get pretty invested in each patient because it takes time. And a patient can read you immediately if you’re invested in their care or not.
Lynn Sieben, RRT
Respiratory Therapy
CentraCare-Paynesville
Lynn nice story along with picture. Not only do you do a good job at work, but you are caring in conversations with others.
Lynn you are amazing and so valued! Thank you so much for what you do and for your investment in our patients!
You are the best Lynn! I have learned so much from you and we are lucky to have you on the team.
Thank you for sharing your story, Lynn! Respiratory Therapy is a very important and often forgotten part of the front lines and care teams. I am grateful to have you caring for patients.