Kaylynn Bradley and Thomas “TJ” Bohannon (pictured) graduated (in the same class) from Peoples Academy in 2012. They went their separate ways and pursued their separate dreams. Within a few years, however, they both found themselves at Copley Hospital. Beginning this fall, they’ll both enroll (again, in the same class) in Vermont State University’s ADN (Associate’s Degree in Nursing) program where they’ll earn their Registered Nurse (RN) designations.
Bradley and her husband – and their two boys – were all born at Copley, so it’s no surprise to find her building a career here. She started out in Patient Access/Registration before moving to Mansfield Orthopaedics where she spent the next seven years, eventually becoming a medical assistant. From there, it was back to Copley – where she was one of the first participants to earn her Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) certification through Copley’s nursing assistant program. Eventually, Kaylynn became Unit Coordinator in the Operating Room (OR). “I love working here,” she says. “Everyone is so supportive and helpful, and so anxious to help you advance. It’ll be hard to say goodbye, but it’s only an 18 month program, and as soon as I’ve got that RN I’m coming back!”
Bohannon discovered his passion for healthcare while still in high school. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Wellness and Alternative Medicine at (then) Johnson State College. From there he went to nursing school, but an illness prevented him from completing the program. “Around that time a friend suggested I apply to Copley as a Surg-Tech,” he said. “I did, and after completing scrub tech school, found that I loved assisting the surgeons. I’ve learned so much here, and every day there is something new to learn. But my dream of having those two letters – RN – after my name never went away. With Kelly (Langston) and Karen (Cavender’s) support, I decided it was time to try nursing school again. And learning that Kaylynn would be there too – well, that just made it all the better. My plan post degree is to come back to Copley – it’s just an amazing place to work.”
Surgical Services RN Kelly Langston describes Bradley and Bohannon as “two local kids” whose smiles, attitudes, dedication, and work ethic leave a deep and positive impression on everyone they encounter. “These are two of the most loyal and dedicated people I have ever had the privilege of working with,” Langston said. “The first words out of their mouths are always ‘yes, of course, I can do that’. We’re so proud of them for what they’ve accomplished, and we’re so happy to see them get the recognition they deserve. We will feel their absence when they are in school, but they tell us they’re coming back, and we’re just keeping our fingers crossed they do!”