At UNC Health Pardee, we are fortunate to have an extraordinary team of Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) who are deeply committed to delivering exceptional care to our patients and community. In honor of National APP Week, we are spotlighting a few of our dedicated APPs, sharing their journeys into this fulfilling field, and what inspires them to continue serving every day. From nurse practitioners to physician assistants, our APPs play a crucial role in our healthcare system, offering expert medical care.
Lauren Eastridge, PA-C was inspired to become a Physician Assistant in college. “I knew I wanted to go into healthcare because I wanted to work closely with people and always enjoyed science but wasn’t sure which job I wanted. I researched and shadowed various professions in medicine, such as physicians and physician assistants (PAs). I loved PAs because they were very skilled and knowledgeable and went through very extensive training to learn how to take care of patients well. I loved the amount of contact and time [PAs have] with their patients, and how skilled they could be in certain procedures and specialties.”
Alyse Cannaday, NP-C finds the most fulfilling part of being an APP is having the time and opportunity to meet new patients from all walks of life. “I enjoy learning about my patient’s hobbies, lifestyle, and personal goals for their health. In learning about them, it allows me the chance to develop a personalized approach to addressing their health needs. My background as a nurse in many different roles and environments gives me comfort and knowledge for unique situations. The most rewarding feedback I receive from patients is when they tell me they feel comfortable and that they can talk to me without any barriers in place. Truly, I feel the personal connection I develop with patients allows me to provide the best care possible. I absolutely love what I do and feel my faith drives my love and compassion to care for all people.”
Jeremy Moses, PA-C found his inspiration while working as an EMT and combat medic. “I had the opportunity as a young adult to see many different facets of the medical field. I was lucky to work with many talented PAs and was drawn to that field. PAs have the flexibility to work within different specialties within medicine. This gives us the chance to use our experience in previous positions and specialties as we move through our career to the benefit of our colleges and patients. “
Jessica Gasperson-Shuford, MSN, APRN, FNP-C is finding fulfillment in stepping into a role at the Acute Care Clinic at Pardee Cancer Center. “It is a privilege to be the first acute care NP in oncology and helping to develop the Acute Care Clinic has been a life-changing experience for me as an APP. I meet most of our oncology/hematology patients shortly after diagnosis – when fear and the unfamiliar world of cancer seems overwhelming. Along with the rest of our amazing oncology team, I can arm them with the knowledge of what is coming, manage their symptoms and side effects once they begin treatment to help them stay on track and continue to fight their disease, give them more good days during treatment, and keep them at home with their loved ones instead of in the hospital or emergency room. As an APP, I am able to contribute to our patient’s survivorship story and make this chapter of their lives just a little less frightening. That is irreplaceable. “
Samantha Walsh, PA-C, CWS sums up the sentiments we gather from all our APPs – “the most fulfilling part of being an APP is having a purpose in this thing we call life. Doing what I love – healing others – makes me proud, confident, and fulfilled.”
Our APPs make a lasting impact with their expertise, compassion, and dedication to patient care. Their stories inspire us to recognize the essential role they play in ensuring our patients receive the best care possible. We are proud to celebrate Parde’es APPs this week and every week, as they continue to make a meaningful difference in our community.
