Laurie Anderson, RN
Laurel (who goes by the nickname Laurie) comes to us with a lifetime’s love and curiosity for science, coupled with a desire to help people. What a wonderful combination when it comes to patient care! Pursuing her interest in medicine, Laurie became an RN, provided in critical care and health & wellness arenas and now, comes to us with 35 years’ experience.
Originally from sunny California, Laurie came to Orcas Island when she was 16. The “gem of the San Juans” proved to be an ideal setting, as she enjoys hiking and appreciates the evergreen, beautiful mountains of the island. Married to her soulmate Jim, they have three creative children and one very lovable golden retriever. When she’s not at the clinic, Laurie can be found in her garden and/or kitchen – she loves to cook and build things! One of her favorite quotes is by Henry Thoreau, which is, “Only that day dawns to which we are awake.”
When you visit our office, say hello to Laurie. She has a knack for putting her patients at ease, engaging in a friendly manner and taking good care of their needs.
Kendra Canton
Kendra comes to us as a graduating senior at the University of Washington majoring in Medical Anthropology and Global Health. Her aspirations to attend medical school and obtain her MD/MPH will eventually take her to practice pediatrics or family medicine. We’re so fortunate to have her as an integral part of the Acute Pain Therapies team. Her warmth and friendly smile will put you at ease from the onset. Her knowledge about the medical field in general and sincere interest in putting the “care” back into healthcare for patients is priceless.
On her off time, Kendra enjoys activities including: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Associated Students of University of Washington Board of Directors, Multicultural Outreach and Recruitment Student Ambassador Program, Population Health Initiative, and Minority Association of Pre-Health Students.
Kendra has a passion for people and celebrating diversity. There’s no question why one of her favorite quotes is by John Lewis, American politician and civil rights leader –
“If not you then who? If not now, then when?”
Shirleen Griffin-Bakken
After a lifetime of moving around the west Shirleen settled in Seattle in the early 80’s. The beautiful pacific northwest quickly became home and she eventually raised three daughters here. In 2000, Shirleen remarried and was fortunate to add another daughter to the “squad” who won GOLD in the 2002 Winter Olympics. Needless to say she beams with pride whenever asked about her children.
Grandma is another cherished role she plays in the family – ‘Mim’ is the name she answers to whenever any of her four grandchildren call out to her! She has one grandson who is sadly out-numbered by three granddaughters (#smartgirlsrule!) They are active and charming – and she says, one of the best gifts in life.
Her varied nursing career over the past 41 years with stints in med-surgery, oncology, sports medicine, family practice, home health and school nursing really got our attention. As a valuable member of our team, she truly understands the intricacies of providing a special patient experience.
When Shirleen is not working she’s creating: paper, yarn, fabric and even a garden are her canvases. When we asked her what her favorite quote is she recited Maya Angelou, “If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be!” We agree! Normal is overrated.
Katie DeHaan, Office Manager
We’re thrilled that Katie joined our team at the beginning of 2019. She hails from Bridgeton, born and raised in the beautiful garden state of New Jersey where she began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and also became an injection coordinator before pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. Katie serves as our front office manager and she’s the first person you’ll encounter upon visiting Acute Pain Therapies. Katie’s warmth and eagerness to provide compassionate care is evident and her love for nursing shines through in all that she does. Uneasy about an upcoming procedure? Katie can put your mind at ease. Questions about insurance? Ask Katie – if she doesn’t know the answer she’ll find it.
When she’s not at work Katie enjoys spending time with her family – she has two children, ages 14 & 11 and four step-children, ages 9, 13, 17 and 20. There’s never a dull moment – whether she’s enjoying movie night with her husband and kids or out walking their playful, yellow Labrador retriever (Hannah) she keeps busy with home, family, school and work!