JRMC would love to introduce you to a couple of our team captains at Pinky Swear Headquarters. Renae Berg, RT(R)(CT) and Heather Sobolik, RT(R)(CT)(M) are the two smiling, anxiety-reducing faces that ensure you not only receive high-quality breast images, but that you can feel safe and comfortable in their care.
They are a crucial part of delivering a VIPink experience with your mammogram. We thought you might like to get to know them and why we think they are amazing.
ABOUT RENAE
Renae was born in the Philippines. As a young girl, she frequently traveled between the U.S. and the Philippines. A travel lover, she dreamed of being a flight attendant. Like a flight attendant, Renae has found a career where she is still in charge of the comfort and safety of others.
“I am very passionate about women’s health,” said Renae. “Being able to help detect the smallest of cancers before any symptoms appear can make a huge difference in a woman’s life! That’s what makes my job worth it.”
Renae beautifully sums up her motivation: “Every 30-minute appointment may help save a life.”
Aerophobia is the fear of flying. There isn’t a similar term for mammography, but fear about the experience, including discomfort or receiving bad news, is an obstacle for many women.
“I try to get my patients talking during their exams; it helps put them at ease and takes their mind off the mammogram,” said Renae. “But I am also a good listener. I just want to be that person who can put you at ease while making a great choice for your health.”
Jamestown is home to Renae. Outside of work, she decompresses at the lake with family and her “goodest boy,” a dog named Boon.
JRMC has been home to her talents since 2019. She loves her co-workers and they love it whenever she shares her pickle dip at any of their regular potlucks.
Thanks Renae!
ABOUT HEATHER
Heather is a native North Dakota girl. Being a radiology technologist has been her dream since her junior year in high school. Talk about focus!
“I chose radiology because I love helping people. Aiding in a patient’s diagnosis is fulfilling to me,” said Heather. “Anything I can do to help others, I will try and do.”
Heather completed her degree in St. Cloud, Minn., and chose JRMC right after graduation. She is constantly working to expand her skill set and trained and eventually passed her board exams to be a mammographer, all while at JRMC.
While knowing your care provider is so motivated, well-trained and experienced should ease anxiety, Heather describes nerves about mammograms as perfectly normal.
“It is completely normal to be nervous,” said Heather. “You are out of your element in a room with someone you do not know. “It is normal to have concerns or feel awkward.”
She calls on her relaxed personality to ensure you get the best care possible.
“We always work with our patients; whatever you’re feeling, we are here to listen and help,” said Heather. “We are also great with small talk. We’ll get those nerves calmed in no time.”
“Women are strong, said Heather. “You and I can get through this exam together!” With a great pep talk like that, we agree.
Thanks Heather!