The senior medical assistant found a renewed sense of purpose and second career after losing a loved one.
For Michelle Potter, caring for patients is more than a job: it’s a path chosen after a personal loss that reshaped her sense of purpose. After Michelle’s father died of a massive heart attack and she witnessed care without compassion, she felt called to re-evaluate her career in corporate HR and look for ways to better support families, like hers, through medical crisis.
For Michelle Potter, caring for patients is more than a job: it’s a path chosen after a personal loss that reshaped her sense of purpose. After Michelle’s father died of a massive heart attack and she witnessed care without compassion, she felt called to re-evaluate her career in corporate HR and look for ways to better support families, like hers, through medical crisis. “You know, they always say don't make big life decisions when things like that happen. But I did,” said Michelle. “So, I went back to school. I started as a medical assistant and fell in love with it.”
Leaving behind a stable career and returning to school wasn’t easy. There were moments of uncertainty, but each time Michelle connected with a patient, she felt reassured she had made the right decision. She joined Providence Regional Medical Center Everett’s cardiac surgery team just as the pandemic began. About a year later, she transitioned to the vascular and vein department, where she continues to care for patients today as a senior medical assistant.
In her role, no two days are alike. From aneurysm follow-up appointments to wound care, Michelle helps patients navigate a wide range of health concerns, often meeting patients during some of the most stressful moments of their lives. She remembers what it felt like during her father’s health crisis and reflects on what her family would have needed in that moment. That guides her approach with her own patients today. Often, it’s simple: a reassuring voice, a listening ear and someone willing to slow down and be patient with a patient’s loved ones.
“Being able to be there and just be that calm in the storm for them, that's what I focus on most,” Michelle remarked.
While the Mission initially drew Michelle to Providence Swedish, the culture of compassion, teamwork and support has kept her here. Michelle says the sense of support she feels from her colleagues is what truly sets Providence Swedish apart and makes her feel like she’s surrounded by family.
In some ways, she is.
Michelle’s husband, Scott, also works at PRMCE in the security department. Their shared workplace gives them another point of connection at the end of the day, when they talk through the good, the hard and the funny moments from their respective roles. For Michelle, that time with Scott — along with daily calls to both of their moms — is something that brings her the most joy.
Michelle and Scott also enjoy long drives, movies, books, quiet days at home, working on cars and the occasional cruise. Their household includes two four-legged “kids,” cats Buttercup and Westaley, named after characters from their favorite movie, The Princess Bride.
Whether supporting patients in the clinic or spending time with loved ones, Michelle's commitment to compassion shines in every aspect of her life. The care she once wished for her own family has become the foundation of the career she has built.
"I’m very passionate about my job – it’s just one of those things that I love to do,” commented Michelle. “Knowing that I’m appreciated, that makes it even more worthwhile every day.”
