For Heather Hayes, nursing is more than a profession — it is a calling rooted in compassion, perseverance and a genuine love for helping others.
A native of Fordyce, Hayes graduated from Fordyce High School in 2016 before attending the University of Arkansas at Monticello, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science in 2019. Although her original plan was to attend occupational therapy school, Hayes said life eventually guided her toward the career she had considered from the very beginning.
“Originally, I wanted to major in nursing, but I went the occupational therapy route,” Hayes said. “I just knew I wanted to help patients.”
Following graduation from college, Hayes began working as a pharmacy technician at City Drug in Monticello. The experience allowed her to interact with patients daily and further sparked her interest in healthcare. She later accepted a position at the gastroenterology clinic at Jefferson Regional Medical Center, where she worked the front desk.
While working there, Hayes found herself increasingly drawn to nursing and the personal connections nurses are able to build with patients during some of the most important and vulnerable moments of their lives. Determined to follow her passion, she enrolled in the JRMC School of Nursing.
Hayes graduated as a registered nurse in 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, an experience she described as intense but ultimately valuable in shaping her career.
“When I was in nursing school, it was right during COVID, so I had to adapt from what I learned during that time,” Hayes said. “It was an intense experience that nursing now feels easier by comparison. I do feel like I would be prepared if another pandemic hit.”
Beginning a nursing career during a global pandemic gave Hayes firsthand experience with the pressures and unpredictability of healthcare. Despite the challenges, she said the experience strengthened her confidence and prepared her to remain calm in difficult situations.
After earning her nursing degree, Hayes worked as a float nurse for Mainline Health Systems, serving clinics in Monticello, Rison and Star City. Working in multiple locations allowed her to gain experience with a variety of patients and healthcare environments while learning to adapt quickly to each clinic’s unique needs.
After the birth of her first child, Hayes transitioned into her current role as Dr. Pennington’s nurse at the Warren clinic, where she said she immediately felt welcomed by both the staff and the community.
“The staff here is by far my favorite clinic to work with,” Hayes said. “Everyone gets along. I love trying to grow a personable connection with the patients.”
Hayes said those personal connections are what make nursing so rewarding. Whether she is helping patients understand medications, answering questions about medical supplies or simply taking the time to listen, she believes compassion is one of the most important parts of healthcare.
“Being able to help patients when they have questions about their medications or supplies and being able to teach them reminds me why I chose nursing,” Hayes said. “I love being able to help where I can.”
She also credits her family for inspiring and encouraging her throughout her life, especially her mother.
“My family influenced me, especially my mom,” Hayes said.
Although healthcare can be demanding, Hayes said every day is different, which is one of the things she enjoys most about her profession. At the same time, she acknowledged that modern healthcare comes with constant challenges and changes.
“Healthcare in general changes every day, and every patient is different,” she said.
When difficult or stressful days arise, Hayes said returning home to her husband and 20-month-old daughter helps keep everything in perspective.
“My daughter and husband keep me grounded,” she said.
Outside of work, Hayes enjoys spending time with her family and embracing the outdoors. Her hobbies include shopping, hunting with her husband, swimming and spending time out in the sun whenever possible. She said balancing family life with her career helps her recharge and maintain a positive outlook.
Looking back on her journey, Hayes considers completing nursing school and pursuing the career she always dreamed of to be one of her greatest accomplishments.
“Going to nursing school and chasing my dreams,” Hayes said when asked what accomplishment she is most proud of.
She also hopes to encourage others who may be considering a career in healthcare to pursue their goals with determination and kindness.
“Chase your dreams,” Hayes said. “Be willing to interact with the patient and treat them how you want to be treated.”
Now serving patients in Warren and surrounding communities, Hayes said one of her favorite things about Bradley County is the friendliness of the people and the close-knit atmosphere of the town.
“Seeing people in the parking lot or grocery stores uptown and people are so friendly here,” she said.
For Hayes, nursing is ultimately about more than medicine or procedures — it is about caring for people, building trust and making a difference in the lives of patients each day. Through her compassion, dedication and commitment to serving others, Hayes continues to embody what it truly means to be a healthcare hero.
