Whether she’s lending a listening ear or whistling down the hallway, Joan Teems brings joy, compassion, and decades of experience to her role as a lead licensed practical nurse at Morning Pointe of Calhoun, Georgia.
A Heart for Helping, Inspired by Family
Growing up as one of seven children, she spent time wondering what path to take in life. Her mother had always wanted to be a nurse, and as Joan puts it, “We talked about it, and I made it my own dream.”
After three decades as a school nurse, Joan felt a calling to care for a different generation. In 2003, she began working as an LPN at a skilled nursing facility in Dalton, Georgia. She has been in senior care/senior living ever since. “I just like helping people,” she said. “I wanted a nursing job where I am able to build relationships with people.”
At Morning Pointe of Calhoun, she is able to do just that. She has been at the community since 2020. She started as a part-time LPN on the recommendation of one of her former coworkers and has worked her way up to a full-time, lead LPN position.
More Than a Nurse: A Friend to All
Over her time so far, she has gotten close to several residents in particular. One gentleman loved to chat with her over his morning coffee. And one of the ladies rejoiced with Joan when she found out she was going to be a grandmother for the first time. She shared stories of what it’s like to be a grandma. Joan is also a cancer survivor, which gives her another connection point with some of the residents.
Residents up and down the halls call Joan the Whistling Nurse as she whistles tunes throughout the community, spreading joy as she goes about her work.
It’s not just residents who Joan has been able to bond with, either. “My coworkers and I are a team – I consider them all my friends.” Sometimes, she even goes out to dinner with her resident assistant team to enjoy fellowship outside of work.
“I really love being a nurse here at Morning Pointe,” Joan said. “I enjoy assisting folks, being someone to rely on.”
Joan’s steady presence, bright spirit, and whistled melodies make her not just a nurse, but a beloved part of the Morning Pointe Senior Living family.
