Jenn Schrandt, Brenner Critical Care Transport Nurse + Joffre Schrandt, AirCare Flight Paramedic
Couples may disagree on many things, politics, sports, or what’s for dinner, but there is one thing Jenn and Joffre Schrandt do agree on and that is the gratification they’ve both found in working at Atrium Wake Forest Baptist.`
Both came to healthcare at a young age. For Joffre the spark came when first responders showed up for a field day at his school. “The moment he saw the helicopter, he was hooked,” his mother said.
Jenn, however, knowing the demands nursing had placed on her mother, had crossed off nursing as a career. A service trip helping nurses in to Kenya changed her mind. She called home and surprised her mother by announcing she wanted to be a nurse after all. After 12 years as a pediatric nurse, she still feels fortunate. This past summer she worked as a nurse at Victory Junction, a camp in Randleman, founded by the late Adam Petty, for children with complex medical conditions and chronic illnesses. Her eyes light up when she describes the joy that comes watching as campers enjoyed barrier-free activities; where they could be kids, play, imagine, make friends and enjoy the adventures and experiences of camp life.
As for Joffre, he is proud how the AirCare team can go to small towns and remote locations, bringing high-level care to those in critical need. While the technology the team has as its disposal is unsurpassed, he says bringing a sense of calm and reassurance to patients and their families is the part of the job he values most.
Both Jenn and Joffre say they appreciate the ability to talk through their respective days with a spouse who understands the demands of caring for the critically ill. To avoid the “burn out” that can occur for those faced each day with life and death issues, both embrace outdoor activities and gardening.
When asked if there’s anything that could make their jobs easier, both agree, “Less paperwork!” they say with a laugh.
