As a community, we depend on the strength and skill of our healthcare workers to keep us alive and healthy. These men and women work long, exhausting hours caring for us and our families. We appreciate you showing up every day and are deeply grateful for what you’re sacrificing to keep the Mid-South healthy. Meet a few of these brave Memphians…
Moesha Phillips
Registered Nurse at Methodist University Hospital Blood and Marrow Transplant Center
Moesha has a goal of walking or running two miles a day and likes to switch up her workout every few days. She’d love to drop a few pounds while being active and healthy.
“Running is probably my favorite, and I’ll run at my apartment complex. My favorite exercises moves are air squats and abs.” says Moesha.
Favorite Cheat Meal: Definitely a seafood boil bag
When I’m not working out I Love to…. binge watch TV
Cheryl Parker
Registered Nurse at Methodist University Hospital ER
Pre-COVID, Cheryl taught Body Pump classes at Jewish Community Center. When the gym closed, she started a Facebook page called ER Nurses and Friends Fitness. Through that she hosted Body Pump classes on Facebook Live or Zoom about every other day. People also stayed active and engaged with written workouts or videos she posted by other instructors. Even her son helped out by demonstrating exercises using items around the house such as books as weights. With her gym re-opened, Cheryl is back to teaching in person. However, classes look a little different with online reservations required and limited space available.
“Being on my feet for 12 hours, I notice a big difference when I am in shape. I’m able to do more and maintain my energy,” says Cheryl.
Favorite Cheat Meal: I love ramen noodles and ice cream.
When I am not working out I love to… go swimming with my kids and husband. I also love to watch Grey’s Anatomy while shopping on my phone.
Eric Donahue
Registered Nurse at Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital COVID unit
Eric enjoys running at Shelby Farms for about 45 minutes three to four times a week. His COVID unit also does an Apple Watch activity challenge every other month. He runs seven days a week during those challenges.
“My unit is a very competitive bunch!” says Eric.
Favorite Cheat Meal: My guilty pleasure is an entire mushroom and pineapple pizza from Domino’s. It makes for a miserable run the next day.
When I am not working out I love to… follow my favorite sport teams and go to games. But since COVID, I’m working out a lot extra now, so that’s keeping me busy.
Abby Clark
Flight nurse for Hospital Wing
Abby tries to run and lift weights 3–4 times a week. Sometimes, she throws in a kickboxing routine too.
“We see and deal with so many things in EMS. Releasing those endorphins helps to ease my mind. My patients (especially young adults who have suffered a traumatic injury) aren’t as lucky as I am, so I remind myself I am blessed to be as healthy as I am and able to workout.”
Favorite Cheat Meal: It’s a tough choice between Mexican and Chick-fil-A!
When I’m not working out I like to…travel. I love to see different parts of the world and experience different cultures.
Amy Rice
Registered Nurse at Methodist South Labor & Delivery
Amy is a member of diversiFIT, which gives her access to some of the best gyms in Memphis like CrossFit Hit and Run Triad, CycleBar, Shed Fitness, Hot Yoga Plus, and Memphis Fitness Kickboxing. These are also places where she has built lifelong friendships.
“They have created a community that I’m incredibly proud and thankful to be a part of. I have to say, though, CycleBar is the love of my life. It changes you from the inside out—for the better!”
Favorite Cheat Meal: White Claw
When I’m not working out I like to… I’m currently working on writing a book called Sorry About That Last Part. Those who know me will get the joke there. Everyone else will have to wait.
By Lucy Harrison Photos by Tindall Stephens
