Five Questions with Jenn Derraugh-Nelson
For this month’s “Five Questions” blog post, we sat down with Jenn Derraugh-Nelson, one of the Social Workers on our team to find out what inspires her.
Jenn came to our team this year from oncology and works hard to support participants in both our ECORT and BEACON studies. Check out our chat with her below!
1. What brought you to the area of mental health?
I was first introduced to the area of mental health when I was in junior high and volunteered in a hospital, with individuals living with Alzheimer's and Dementia. In high school I volunteered in the recreational department of a long-term care facility, working with individuals, some who were living with Alzheimer's, Dementia, and mental illness. My experiences as a teenager drew my interest away from the sciences, I was going to apply to biochemistry, and changed it to social work as a career choice. I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals and families who are living with mental illness and advocating for themselves or their loved one for access to services and supports. These experiences and opportunities have led me to continue my career in mental health.
2. What work do you do in the lab and what has been your proudest moment so far?
I am a social worker with the lab. I am new to the lab this year and am working as a Health Coach with the Enhancing COVID Rehabilitation with Technology (ECORT) Study. My proudest moment so far? I would say it has been being available to listen and support individuals that have been diagnosed with long-covid.
3. Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster?
I would rather be a tiny elephant. For one, elephants are empathetic animals and will help an injured herd mate and will support and reassure a distressed member of their herd. Elephants also have amazing memories. Maybe if I had a memory of a tiny elephant, I would be able to remember where I left my phone and car keys every day.
4. What is the best (or worst) advice you’ve ever been given?
The best advice I received was when I was completing my social work degree. My professor told us, "Remember you cannot save the world, you can only support, guide and work with the person in front of you. Be present, be genuine." I continue to use this in both my professional and personal life, and make sure I take the time to stop and listen and be in the moment with the person/people in front of me.
5. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?
My favourite way to unwind after work is to spend time with my family. We are a busy family, with one playing competitive soccer and the other playing hockey, so we are often on the go in the evenings. I enjoy being at my children's games cheering them on. On our few quiet nights we often sit back, relax with a bowl of popcorn, and watch movies.