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36 years ago, Terri Brown, Lead Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), began her journey at Trinity Health, working on the medical floor while attending nursing school. Upon graduating, Terri began working in the intensive care unit (ICU) at Trinity Health, where she spent her practicum and developed a passion for the ICU.

Although Terri will always have a passion for the ICU, her 12 years there and her time as a flight nurse laid the foundation for her next passion in anesthesia, where she continues to serve patients today. “The ICU and being a flight nurse gave me the base for all of what someone needs to know to be a great CRNA. The skillset that you develop and the gut feelings you get while taking care of patients really turned out to be a perfect precursor for anesthesia,” said Terri.

When Terri decided to move from the ICU to anesthesia, she eagerly seized the chance to try something new and continue using the skills she loves, now with more autonomy and responsibilities. When it was time for her first patient in her new field, she remembers the feeling vividly.

“I felt proud knowing I was able to care for a patient, and everything went smoothly. It was such a good feeling to know I could do this, especially on my own.”

Twenty years later, Terri continues to care for anesthesia patients at Trinity Health, where she has observed significant changes in the field. Some notable changes include technological advances, increased practice opportunities, the evolution of monitoring technology, and the readily available information and assessment tools that aid in making timely decisions.

“We used to carry a bag full of books to look at when you came across something new. Now, we have so much information readily available at our fingertips. It’s all right there for very quick access,” said Terri.

While many things have changed over the years, one constant has been the support for each other and the culture of the CRNA team, many of whom have worked together for over 20 years, and at both the Healthcare Campus and Medical District and at the Legacy campus.

“Most of our team is homegrown, and we have a family-like atmosphere. We stick together, support one another, help each other out and everyone is ready to jump in if needed. I think that’s what makes us a great team,” said Terri.

She added, “When we moved facilities, it seemed like such an uphill process at first, but it was nice that we all had worked together for so long, developed a plan and carried it out. It was a big undertaking, but it went so smoothly. I think because we all had the experience of working together and knew our plan, it ended up being a seamless move.”

While teamwork and experience shape the foundation of Terri’s work, it’s her commitment to caring for and advocating for patients that continues to define her role in anesthesia. For Terri, anesthesia is about far more than medications and monitoring; it’s about being a constant voice for patients during some of their most vulnerable moments.

“Being there for patients during their most vulnerable moments is the most important thing and always our number one concern. Every decision we make is focused on the patient,” said Terri. “They may not remember us, but we always want them to feel comfortable knowing we care and that everything we do is for them.”

That same sense of care and purpose extends beyond Terri’s work in the operating room and into her long-standing commitment to Trinity Health. For Terri, staying with the organization for more than three decades has always been about more than a job; it’s about the people, the mission, and the ability to make a meaningful difference close to home.

“This is my home. Trinity Health is our community hospital. It serves my family and friends, and I’m committed to this place.”

With years of experience behind her, Terri now finds purpose in mentoring and supporting new CRNAs as they enter the field. She encourages those starting their careers to trust their training, lean on their teams and never lose sight of the patient.

“You will have good days and bad days. Never stop learning and give yourself some grace. There can be such an array of emotions you experience, but it is the most rewarding career,” said Terri.

More than three decades into her career, Terri remains guided by the same purpose that first led her to healthcare: caring for patients and supporting those around her. Through teamwork, advocacy and mentorship, she continues to make a meaningful difference for patients and colleagues alike.