Stories of Care That Change Lives
Behind every experience at Willamette Valley Medical Center is a story—of patients, families and the caregivers who support them. In moments of uncertainty, healing and hope, our patients and team members come together with a shared purpose: compassionate, quality care when it matters most. From life-changing diagnoses to routine visits and quiet moments of reassurance, these stories reflect the trust and human connection at the heart of what we do. Below, patients and team members share their real experiences and the impact of being there for one another.
Willamette Valley Medical Center Specializes in You
“Having my clinic in the hospital is very helpful. I can come down and check on my patients or support the hospital if a patient comes through the ED and needing orthopedic consult.”
“The value of family medicine is to provide holistic care for the whole family. It’s an honor and a privilege to have that scope.” Hear more from Dr. Taher and how he cares for patients.
Emergency nursing takes quick thinking, teamwork, and a deep passion for caring for others. Lauren Blake, RN, brings all of that—and more—to our Emergency Department. For Lauren, being a nurse isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. Every day, she shows up ready to comfort, advocate, and make a difference for patients when they need it most.
The LPN to RN Apprenticeship Program supports Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in advancing their education and transitioning into Registered Nurse (RN) roles. In partnership with Chemeketa Community College, we offer a one‑year blend of academic learning and real‑world clinical experience. Phebe’s story highlights the program and how it helped her take the next step in her career.
Transitioning from the classroom to the bedside can be a difficult journey for new nurses. The nurse residency program at Willamette Valley Medical Center offers the perfect environment for recent graduate nurses to develop proficiency in both their new role and our organization’s culture. Experience this program and journey news nurses take through Jerrica’s story.
"It's such an honor to welcome new life into the world here in this community. What makes it even more special is to do so alongside my mother. Every day, I also get to see the smiling face of the same nurse that helped deliver me 26 years ago. WVMC's birthing center is a very special place to me."
- Shelbi Millsap, RN, Labor and Delivery
Patient Stories
Emergency Room and ICU - Ed Estes's Story
“I was a complicated case, and every level of care was personalized for me. I had never been cared for that way before. They cared about me, and they saved my life.”
Birthing Center - The River-O'Malleys' Story
“From our preferred birthing center to our primary care provider, Willamette Valley Medical Center has really supported us in raising a family of young boys. We have made life-long connections here.”
Brian's Cancer Journey
Brian was diagnosed with lung cancer in June 2016 and despite a very difficult and trying treatment course, he fondly recalls many of the staff members who helped him along his journey. He is quick to say Dr. O’Brien has one of the brightest minds the world has ever seen - “I know she saved my life....If it wasn’t for this little hospital, none of this would have happened. Coming here is like coming home.”
Tony's Weight Loss Story
Tony’s weight was impacting his health and lifestyle -- keeping him from doing the things he enjoyed with his friends and family. When he decided to make a change to improve his quality of life, Tony met bariatric surgeon, Dr. Erin Thompson and the team at Willamette Bariatric Institute. After weight loss surgery, Tony has lost around 250 pounds and has gained a new outlook on life.
Team Member Stories
Dr. Margaret Miller, Pediatrician
“I have always loved taking care of children, and as a pediatrician my primary focus is welcoming children in their first days in the world. I have a great job!”
Gary Smith, Radiologic Technologist
“This is my team, my crew, my place. We have an amazing team.”
Dr. Derek Rains, Orthopedic Surgeon
“In my practice, I partner with patients to design the best treatment options for them and their goals.”
Zac's Story
As a registered nurse who has served in many bedside and leadership roles at Willamette Valley Medical Center, Zac is passionate about the care provided at WVMC. For him, it all comes down to little moments that make a big difference to the patients and colleagues he interacts with every day.
Jennifer's Story
Jennifer’s relationship with Willamette Valley Medical Center began while she was attending nursing school. She delivered all three of her children at WVMC and now serves as the director of the maternal/child unit working alongside some of the same people she worked with 20 years ago. She is proud to work every day beside what she describes as “some of the most incredible and inspiring women and men dedicated to excellence in women’s health.”
Katie's Story
Katie is a registered nurse at Willamette Valley Medical Center and she’s experienced the care at WVMC is more ways than one. The emergency care she saw provided for her father during a heart attack impacted her decision to become a nurse, and she trusted WVMC to help her family welcome their children into the world. She loves her colleagues and is proud to be a part of providing that care to her community.