Supporting careers in health

The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Foundation Board has awarded four scholarships to local youth pursuing careers in healthcare.

Qualifying applicants had to be a graduate of Carbon County School District 1 or 2, have a 3.0 GPA or higher, demonstrate previous or current community and/or involvement in extra-curricular activities, and plan to pursue a course of study which will lead to a career in healthcare.

Riley Little (Saratoga), Makiya Johnson (Saratoga), Bailey Morgan (Rawlins) and Indica Gallo (Rawlins) were selected as this year's scholarship recipients, each receiving $500.

"Healthcare and the nursing industry are essential to every person regardless of how healthy or active they are. The State of Wyoming is such a rural place that healthcare providers are often few and far between. Living on a ranch, I know that accidents and sickness are bound to happen; nursing and other healthcare professionals help get us back on our feet to continue to do our jobs. In my case, raising cattle and living on a ranch, my job is to feed Americans. I know that without their services, we couldn't do this. This is one of the contributing factors for me pursuing a career as a pharmacist," said Riley Little

"I discovered my passion after I had a severe knee injury my junior year. I have always enjoyed sports and had to sit out for a year and do Physical Therapy three times a week and every day on my own to get back to playing. I truly understand now what hard work and determination is and it's not always easy. I have always been one to help others, and I think that becoming a Physical Therapist will fit me well. I'm determined to reach all of my goals through hard work," said Johnson

"Nurses are the most trusted healthcare professionals. Nurses are not only caregivers but they are advocates, teachers, innovators, and critical thinkers. When you think of a nurse, you automatically think of hospitals. Nurses impact our lives not only in hospitals but in schools, clinics, private homes, and assisted living centers. Becoming a nurse allows you to create a special bond with people. I plan to specialize in pediatrics," said Morgan

"I have always loved helping people, and becoming a nurse will allow me to have a career doing something I love. I find nurses to be a great resource; they are the front line of patient care. The State of Wyoming has 12,110 nurses, and without these nurses, Wyoming patients wouldn't receive the help they need. It is important that we can find dependable healthcare in our state, and not have to travel out of state when we are sick," said Gallo

The MHCC Foundation Board and Memorial Hospital of Carbon County are proud to support the youth of Carbon County and ensure the future growth of healthcare. Congratulations to this year's award winners.