Birmingham Celebrates Nurse Practitioner Week!
Hey there, Birmingham! It’s that special time of year again—November 10-16 is Nurse Practitioner Week! This week, we take a moment to recognize and celebrate the hard-working nurse practitioners (NPs) who make a world of difference in our community, especially at Children’s of Alabama. Did you know that our beloved Children’s has an impressive team of 160 talented NPs? That’s right! They are dedicated to helping patients make better health and lifestyle choices every single day.
Meet the Incredible NPs of Children’s
Want to know what makes these nurse practitioners shine? We caught up with two fantastic NPs working their magic at Children’s. Let’s give it up for Robin Greer and Katelynn Twilley! Each brings their special flair and dedication to this amazing hospital.
Robin Greer: The Lifesaver
First up, we have Robin Greer. Growing up in the suburbs of Birmingham, Robin knew she was destined to help those in need. She pursued her undergraduate degree at Samford University, and later her master’s at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Can you believe she started her journey at Children’s as a nursing assistant while still in nursing school? Talk about ambition!
“Honestly, I thought I would never get to work here because so many nursing students apply,” she shared. “Imagine my surprise when I was hired after graduation—I’m still here 27 years later!” Now, she’s part of the pediatric liver transplant team, serving as both an NP and Liver Transplant Coordinator.
Robin gets to witness the incredible transformation of her young patients. “I chose this profession to bring comfort to people in their time of need,” she explains. “Sometimes, that means giving medication or assisting with a procedure, but just as often, it’s about a comforting hug or a friendly chat. The impact we have on our patients is truly rewarding.”
Katelynn Twilley: The Hope Giver
Next, let’s meet Katelynn Twilley. This inspiring NP started her journey at Children’s in 2015 as a bedside nurse. After earning her master’s at UAB, she ventured to Dallas for a bit, but her heart brought her back to Birmingham in 2022. Now, she’s thriving as an Inpatient Nurse Practitioner for the Chronic Pulmonary Service.
Katelynn fell in love with caring for patients on the Pulmonary Care Unit during her nursing school training. “I was offered a job after my preceptorship and jumped at the chance,” she recalls with a smile. Now, she helps patients who have spent significant time in the ICU, easing their journey back home.
“I adore building relationships with families and celebrating every little victory with my patients,” Katelynn beams. Her passion for her work resonates with everyone at Children’s. “Children’s of Alabama is a unique and special place. I’m constantly inspired by my patients and their resilience.”
Why Children’s of Alabama is the Best
Looking at what Robin and Katelynn have to say, it’s clear that Children’s of Alabama fosters an incredible atmosphere. “The expertise here is a gift for our state,” says Robin. “We provide family-centered care and a collaborative approach that comforts both providers and parents.”
Katelynn echoes this sentiment: “Every day, I see how strong children are and how they remind us to find joy in the small things. I can’t imagine working anywhere else!”
Join the Family!
If you’re inspired by all the incredible work happening every day at Children’s of Alabama, why not consider joining their amazing team? They’re looking for compassionate individuals who want to make a real difference in the lives of families across our great state.
So, let’s give a big shout-out to all nurse practitioners, but especially to our local heroes at Children’s of Alabama. Happy Nurse Practitioner Week, Birmingham! Keep shining, and keep caring!
