Fulfilling Her Calling
Date: July 26, 2010

Professionalism, knowledge and the ability to provide comfort and relieve fears are all qualities that make up a good caregiver. However, some qualities reach beyond day-to-day care and touch hearts in an unforgettable and life-changing way.

She empowers patients’ family members to be strong when their loved ones have just been diagnosed with breast cancer. She makes herself available by providing her personal cell phone number no matter the time, day or night. She sheds tears with patients whom she’s known for less than 24 hours. It’s these qualities that describe The Breast Center at Floyd’s nurse practitioner, Karen Craig.

Patients who walk through the doors at The Breast Center at Floyd are often uneasy, fearful of the unknown and not sure what to expect. Whether arriving for a first time screening exam, to have a biopsy or for post biopsy care, emotions are high. However, those who’ve encountered Karen say she makes the journey seem bearable.

“Karen was very caring and informative to my mom and me directly after my mom’s biopsy.  The next day she gave us the bad news in such a loving and professional way.  That same day I was able to come by and pick up books that she left for me at the front desk.  What an angel.”
– Patient Charlene Knowles

“The world would be a better place if we had more people like Karen. She is professional, caring, gentle and kind.  She takes time to answer questions and relieve fears!” – Patient Shirley Rudisill

“Dear Karen, I can never thank you enough for the special care you gave me. You will never know how upset I was when I walked into The Breast Center. I wanted to run, scream and cry.  You walked in with your glow, your touch, and a look in your eyes and brought such a peace over me.  This, my dear, is your mission in life.  God has chosen you to help women through this journey.  God bless you.” – Patient Kathleen Morris

“Karen was wonderfully supportive and is the most caring person I have ever encountered. She has had a profound impact on my life. She has inspired me to give back.” – Patient Kim Maxwell

“The one person who really, really helped me here is Karen. (She cries) This is her calling. If it had not been for her I would not have made it through that Friday.” – Patient Lericia Hudson

Karen Craig has lived in and served the healthcare needs of individuals and their families within the Rome community since 1992. A certified MammaCare breast specialist, she holds an advanced degree in nursing and is certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. For many years she has provided nursing care for women undergoing various types of breast surgeries and says “the fear on their faces left an impression on me.” 
           

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