Catherine Thompson, pictured in middle

Meet Catherine – one of our research coordinators who has been working at the hospital for the past 18 years. Learn more about her in our SRH Staff Spotlight below: 

What’s your favorite part of your job?
 
My favorite part of my job is knowing that what I do helps people and makes a difference in their lives. I am lucky enough to often be able to see actual change in the condition of my research patients. I also know that what I do may benefit other people outside of the hospital.
 
What’s your favorite thing about the hospital?
 
My favorite thing about SRH is the dedication to helping kids and their families that you see throughout the hospital.
 
Describe a typical day.
 
I don’t think I have a typical day! Some days I call patients, some days I visit with them in clinic or outside of regular clinic times, and most days I work on some type of research regulatory issues.
 
How did you find out about the hospital?
 
During my senior year in high school, we were required to perform service hours. I didn’t actually complete mine here but had friends who did. It was through them that I learned about the hospital.
 
What made you want to work here?
 
The job description drew me in and once I got here, I wanted to stay.
 
What skills do you need for your job?
 
First and foremost, you need to be able to multi-task and work independently. You also need to be able to interpret regulations, keep detailed records and be creative in your approach to a variety of situations. You need be able to form good relationships with lots of different people throughout the hospital. I rely on a lot of great folks in many different departments to make my studies successful.
 
What was your first job? What path did you take to get here?
 
My first job was working in the concession booth at a movie theater. (Our popcorn wasn’t nearly as good as SRH’s!) My path took me through retail, corporate wellness and eventually to the hospital.
 
What is your favorite…

• Hospital event: Pancake Breakfast
• Food in the cafeteria: Grilled cheese sandwiches and fries
• Place in the hospital: The outdoor table area you pass on the way to the parking garage. I know it’s outside, but I love it when I can sit out there for a few minutes or enjoy my lunch outside.

 
What’s your favorite…

• Place to travel: Any place with beautiful forest areas
• Type of food: Tex-Mex…or desserts…or both!
• TV show: Walking Dead 

 
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
 
I think I would have to pick flying so I wouldn’t have to sit in traffic!
 
What did you want to be when you grew up?
 
I still haven’t figured that out…
 
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

The biggest adventure I’ve ever had was having kids! Parenthood is not for the timid.
 
What’s the last book you read?
 
Shanghai Girls by Lisa See
 
What kind of animal would you be?
 
I think being an eagle would be amazing.
 
How long is your commute? What do you do on the drive?
 
A typical morning drive is about 35 minutes. I listen to news radio most of the way in, so I can stay out of traffic jams!
 
What is something people don’t know about you?
 
I love to draw and sketch things. I’m not any good at it, but I enjoy trying!
 
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
 
People should be thankful that I am more of a ‘shower singer’ than a karaoke singer. I have a wide variety of songs for the shower!