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.
Jennie Riedinger, Office Manager
Jennie joined our team in the fall of 2017 and we’re so glad she’s here to keep us organized and to be the first, friendly smile our patients encounter.
Jennie is originally from Chicago, IL. As a youngster, she moved from the windy city to Woodinville with her family in the mid-90’s – sort of a “transplant native.” Her family remains in western WA and they are close!
When we met Jennie we knew she’d be the perfect fit for our team. One of Jennie’s core strengths is the unique ability to anticipate a patient’s needs; assist them in navigating the healthcare system and best of all: help patients connect with and receive exceptional care and support. She’s a master at putting the “care” in healthcare.
On her off days, she enjoys ballet and ballroom dancing – not as a spectator, but as a participant! She’s been dancing her whole life and recently picked up Hula Hooping, which is Jennie’s latest passion, aside from gardening, cooking and getting lost in a good book. She shares her life with partner Ryan, enjoying wine country where there’s lots of peace and room to roam. When asked about her favorite saying, Jennie quotes Dr. Seuss, “Think and wonder. Wonder and think.” (We think that sums it up – life, everything.)
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.