The Power of Nurses: 30+ Years of Care in Action
During National Nurses Week 2026 (May 6–12), HaysMed is honored to spotlight nurses with 30+ years of experience, professionals who have witnessed change, faced challenges head-on, and continued to lead with compassion. Their stories reflect the true power of nursing and the lasting impact it has on lives, families, and our community.
“Some of our nurses have spent their entire careers at HaysMed, caring for multiple generations of the same families. That continuity builds trust you can’t measure, but you can feel. During Nurses Week, we proudly recognize HaysMed Birth Center nurses and ALL nurses whose commitment to caring for our region’s families builds trust and connection across generations.” -Kristy Schlaefli, HaysMed Director of Acute Care and Obstetrics
What’s one tradition, habit, or routine you’ve kept throughout your career?
“I have always carried a million different colored pens in my pockets, just in case…”
What’s been the most rewarding part of caring for patients in western Kansas?
“Working in labor and delivery I have delivered several babies in the same family and it’s fun to see the “babies” several years later!”
Would you rather have a shift with no call lights or no charting?
“It would be great just to take care of patients without the need to chart!”
What are you most proud of in your nursing career at HaysMed?
“I am most proud of the fact that I have worked here this long and have great coworkers! I am also proud to have helped so many patients when they were down and out and to deliver so many babies!”