Hello
My name is Maria Iglesias, BSN, RN, CNOR. I am the Treasurer for the PNA North Houston Inc.
My Story
I was born in Daraga, Albay Bicol but grew up in Manila, Philippines. I am a graduate of Emilio Aguinaldo College. I have been an O.R Nurse for 17 years and am currently one of the Charge Nurses in the Main Operating Room Department at Houston Methodist Willowbrook.
What do you love about the profession of nursing?
Practicing nursing in the operating room gives me instant gratification and personal satisfaction. Our patients come in broken, and with the collaboration of the other surgical team members, we fix them. I get to witness the amazing things everyone can do for the patient in the operating room. It’s such a happy feeling and very fulfilling.
Who has impacted you and why (professional or personal or both)?
My beautiful mother, a retired Pediatrician back home in the Philippines, was why I became a nurse. I saw her dedication and commitment to all her patients. Her clinic was open 24 hours to serve our community. Growing up, I knew I wanted to be in the healthcare industry. I spent three years of studying Physical Therapy, but I was not happy. My mom told me I should try Nursing. I said, “sure.” From day 1, I knew and felt this profession is what I see myself doing for the rest of my life.
What makes you get up and do something every day?
What gets me up is the notion that every day is a brand-new day to grow and learn something new.
Why do you belong to an association like the PNA NH?
I belong to PNANH because I’m bold and unstoppable!
What do you do for fun?
Kayaking, swimming, riding a mountain bike with my husband and daughter, and going to the restaurant right after to replenish all the calories we've lost LOL – things I do for fun lol.
Where and what do you want to be in 3 years?
I might be ready for a leadership role ... though I am not in a rush. I'd like to wait for the right moment. I still see myself being active and in action inside the operating room where my heart and soul belong.
Anything that you want to share about yourself, family, pets, etc., that may surprise others?
Hmmmm, I was Mss Nursing Talakasan (Talino at Lakas) back in my college days. I never want to join, but due to peer pressure, I did. I ended up having so much fun representing the Nursing department.
What does being bold and unstoppable mean to you?
To me, being bold and unstoppable is being confident and fearless.