Ask Leah why she chose nursing as a profession and you’ll get an answer that will make you smile.

‘“It’s fun!” she exclaims. “Our health is the most important thing we have, and if you can share what you know about the human body to make other people feel better, it’s a win-win.”

Several members of Leah’s family, including her mother, are healthcare providers. Leah has 24 years of nursing experience at Blessing, mostly in the care of cancer patients. Her current position with the Bariatric Institute brings a personal element to her nursing practice; Leah was among the first patients to undergo bariatric surgery at Blessing.

“I have a deep understanding of and passion for obesity medicine. It is exciting to be able to connect with patients, when I have been a patient myself – and continue to be because obesity isn’t something that goes away. You control it, or it controls you as with any other chronic disease.”

One of Leah’s hobbies reflects her nursing roots. She calls it “plant rehabilitation” – taking sickly plants and bringing them back to health. “It’s all about nurturing.” 

But her Number One hobby is smiling. “I try to do it as often as possible.”