Celebrating Kathy Robinson’s 50 Years of Compassionate Care

When a complex situation arises, Kathy Robinson’s co-workers in Same-Day Surgery ask a simple question.

“We have a saying here, ‘What would Kat do?’” said co-worker Keli Taylor. “She always knows the right thing to do – and always does the right thing.”

Kathy, an LPN, reached her 50-year service anniversary at DMH in March. She’s the only Memorial colleague to achieve that milestone in 2025.

In her current role, she makes pre-op phone calls to give patients instructions and answer questions. As she works with patients, she draws on 50 years of experience as a nurse on surgical and medical units at DMH, including caring for patients on the post-anesthetic care unit and pre- and post-op Same-Day Surgery patients.

As a bedside nurse, “I loved taking care of patients,” she said, adding that she found her time working in the recovery room (now the post-anesthesia care unit) especially rewarding.

Pam Perryman, who celebrated 45 years of service in 2025, was Kathy’s nurse manager during that stage of her career. Now, they work in the same office. “She was always the one I’d want there in an emergency,” Pam said. “She has so much experience and great assessment skills.”

Kathy’s surgical nursing experience means she knows how important it is that procedures take place as scheduled. Her current co-workers speak highly of her ability to work with patients to address issues that might delay their procedures and reassure those who might be apprehensive.

“She’s a resource for all our questions, and she has a wealth of knowledge of everything pre-admissions,” said her manager, Laura Phares. “Plus, she has a great sense of humor.”

“She is such a delight and a joy to work with and is loved by all her co-workers,” said Jeanie Buckley.

Kathy said she’s felt fortunate to be part of some strong, supportive teams over the years.

“There’s such a continuum of friendship,” she said. “I’ve been blessed by working here.”