Helping a Local Community in a Time of Need

Meet Kirsten Flack, RN, BSN – one of our clinical educators for interstitial lung disease. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, she volunteered her time with the Vashon Island Medical Reserve Corps, a non-profit organization on the small island where she lives across from Seattle, Washington. Kirsten has been helping administer COVID-19 testing and vaccinations within her community.

We asked her a few questions about her drive to volunteer and what encourages her to give back. Here’s what she shared.

Why do you volunteer?

Volunteering is rewarding and joyful. I’ve met so many new people on the island. It’s also given me the opportunity to meet and work with an amazing group of medical professionals too! I’ve really enjoyed being part of a collective humanitarian effort that helps keep my community safe.

Can you share a memorable experience from your time volunteering?

I’ve vaccinated a few people who were very anxious and hesitant. In this situation, it was important for me to help them feel comfortable. I let them know we could take our time. I also showed them the syringe if they asked and reminded them to breathe and relax. My priority was to make the experience as positive as possible. Each of these people thanked me for my patience and kindness. It was rewarding to create a good, welcoming environment for them.

Does your volunteer work connect with your role at Boehringer Ingelheim?

Yes, as a clinical educator my main goals are to ensure patients:

• Are empowered.
• Have the chance to learn in a way that dispels any fear.
• Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their health care needs.

I use this same perspective when I’m volunteering in my community.