Getting to Know You: Mary
If you’ve spent time at Christopher House, chances are you’ve been greeted by one of Mary’s signature giggles. As our Assistant Director of Nursing, Mary helps support our nursing team while ensuring residents receive safe, compassionate care every day. For her, the best part of the job is simple: seeing residents smile and knowing they feel safe and cared for in the place they call home.
Getting to Know You: Mary
Mary’s Christopher House journey is one of dedication and determination. She joined our team in 2011 as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), later became a Ward Clerk on the Brookside Unit, and in 2019 achieved her goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. Today, she’s proud to serve as Assistant Director of Nursing—a role that’s the result of years of hard work, perseverance, and heart.
Need a little energy to start the day? Mary reaches for a cup of coffee before heading to work, often with music playing in the background. In fact, listening to music on her drive in is one of the little things that helps set a positive tone for the day. And if a great song comes on? Don’t be surprised if she’s dancing along. Whether she’s cooking, cleaning, driving, or simply relaxing, music has a way of lifting her spirits and bringing joy to everyday moments.
When she’s not at Christopher House, you’ll most likely find Mary exactly where she’s happiest—at home. Creating a warm, peaceful space where she can cook, listen to music, decorate, and unwind is how she recharges after caring for others all day. She even dreams of becoming an expert in interior design someday, combining her love of beautiful spaces with her eye for organization. For Mary, home truly is her safe haven.
If she does sit down to relax, you’ll probably catch her watching Grey’s Anatomy. It’s no surprise that Mary admires Meredith Grey for her resilience, determination, and compassion—qualities she strives to bring to her own nursing career every day.
If you ask Mary to recommend a book, she’ll point you to Atomic Habits by James Clear. She appreciates its message that small, consistent changes can lead to meaningful results—a philosophy that’s guided her throughout her nursing career and continues to inspire her personal growth.
One of Mary’s favorite travel memories comes from a vacation to Ghana, where she experienced the incredible energy of a traditional live band performance. And if she could pack her bags tomorrow, she’d head right back to Ghana to spend time with her children.
When it comes to family traditions, Christmas in Ghana holds a special place in Mary’s heart. Gathering with family for church, sharing traditional meals like jollof rice and fufu, wearing matching African prints, and filling the day with stories, music, and laughter makes the holiday especially meaningful.
One of the best pieces of advice Mary has ever received is, “Hard work won’t break bones.” It’s a reminder she carries with her every day, encouraging her to stay dedicated, keep learning, and always give her best—for her team and for the residents she serves.
Like many people in healthcare, Mary knows that caring for others starts with taking care of yourself. One thing she’s currently working on is finding a healthy balance between work and personal life, learning to set healthy boundaries and give herself permission to recharge. She believes that taking time to care for herself helps her bring even more compassion, energy, and positivity to the residents and team she cares so deeply about.
When the seasons change, you’ll find Mary looking forward to autumn. She loves the cool, crisp air and the brilliant colors of the leaves, saying it’s the perfect reminder to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the beauty in everyday moments.
If you offered Mary a snack, she’d never turn down something chocolate. And if you asked what song belongs on the Christopher House staff playlist, she’d choose “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey—a perfect match for her optimistic outlook and encouraging spirit.
When asked what she loves most about Christopher House, Mary’s answer comes back to the people.
“One thing I love about the Christopher House community is the strong sense of teamwork, where staff consistently support one another to provide the best possible care for our residents.”
Thank you, Mary, for your leadership, compassion, and positivity. Whether you’re brightening someone’s day with your giggles, encouraging your team, or making residents feel safe and cared for, we’re grateful you’re part of the Christopher House family!
