For Colleen, Medtronic DBS Therapy Sales Representative, Neuromodulation, Minneapolis, there is no typical working day – which is one of the reasons why she loves her job.
Colleen says: “As a sales representative for Medtronic DBS, I spend my day as a true patient advocate. How can I get access to our therapy for the next patient with debilitating Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia or obsessive-compulsive disorder?
“On any given day I can be found in the operating room, neurologist's office, Parkinson's support group, hospital administrator's office or educating a group of physicians and nurses on how to manage patients with our therapy.”
Involved with life-changing therapies
Colleen has the honor and privilege of representing Medtronic Deep Brain Stimulation, one of the most life-changing therapies for patients and their families.
She is able to follow patients in their early decision-making process, watch the actual placement of the leads in the brain during surgery, and be present for their journey to a better life after surgery during the management of the disease.
Colleen explains: “Working with the neurosurgical team to support their effort in accurate placement is immediately rewarded in the operating room when an awake patient with tears in their eyes announces they no longer have a tremor and will be able to eat a meal in public for the first time in years! It's a magical experience and never gets old.”
Playing a part in community education
Colleen has been elected to the National Parkinson's Foundation Minnesota Board of Directors. This opportunity has allowed a forum for her to be an advocate for patients and their families.
She says: “It is rewarding to help in community education, fund-raising, professional education and finding solutions to challenges faced by those with Parkinson's disease.”
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