Structural Heart Coordinator at UF Health Leesburg

Kathy has always loved caring for others. 

That passion led her to pursue a career in nursing when her youngest child started kindergarten. Enrolling at Lake-Sumter State College, she was drawn to cardiology thanks to an inspiring cardiac nursing instructor. Her career in cardiac care took off in 2008 when she began working at UF Health Leesburg—then Leesburg Regional—as a patient care technician on the cardiac floor.

Over the years, Nurse Kathy gained extensive experience in various cardiac specialties, spending time as a floor nurse in cardiac medical, transitioning to the cath lab, and eventually assisting in open-heart surgeries for nearly eight years. 

“All of that experience in different areas of nursing has molded me into what I do now,” she says.

As Structural Heart Coordinator, Kathy plays a critical role in guiding patients through complex procedures such as TAVR (transcatheter aortic valve replacement), MitraClip and Watchman. These minimally invasive procedures can be life-changing, but navigating the process can be overwhelming for patients, especially those without family nearby.

“My job is to coordinate patient care from start to finish, ensuring they understand every step,” she explains. “I take extra time to walk them through what to expect, answer their questions, and advocate for them.”

Beyond the technical aspects of her job, Kathy treasures the relationships she builds with patients. Unlike her time in the operating room, where she rarely saw patients beyond their procedures, she now follows up with them for up to two years. 

“When I make that 30-day call or meet with them at the one-year mark and they remember me, it’s incredibly rewarding,” she says.

Kathy also values the strong teamwork among healthcare professionals. 

“I get to work closely with surgeons and cardiologists, presenting cases and ensuring each patient gets the best care possible,” she says. “It takes a whole team to make a difference.”

For Kathy, the role is the perfect blend of patient interaction and organizational leadership. 

“I don’t miss the early hours of the OR,” she admits with a laugh, “but I love knowing I’m making a lasting impact.”