Humans Who Heal: Cindy Dawson, CMA, Harris Pediatrics

Harris Regional Hospital continues its Humans Who Heal series by recognizing the compassionate team members who make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families. This month's feature highlights Cindy Dawson, Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) at Harris Pediatrics.

Before Cindy even officially joined the Harris Pediatrics team, her future colleagues knew she belonged. Just two weeks into her clinical rotation, staff members were already talking about bringing her on full time.

Following the birth of her son, Cindy returned to school just three weeks after her C-section because she was determined to complete her training and begin the career she had envisioned at Harris Pediatrics. The confidence and encouragement she received from the team early on reinforced that she had found the right place to grow both personally and professionally.

Today, that dedication is reflected in every interaction she has with patients. A fellow team member described Cindy as someone who fills the clinic with music, laughter, and encouragement, helping children feel comfortable through singing, dancing, motivational stickers, and small gifts. Her ability to turn anxious appointments into positive experiences has earned her the nickname "Ms. Rachel of Harris Pediatrics" and national recognition in the American Association of Medical Assistants' Medical Assisting Today magazine.

What is your role at Harris Pediatrics, and how long have you been here?

I have been a Certified Medical Assistant at Harris Pediatrics for one year and five months. My role includes assisting our providers, performing lab testing, administering vaccines, educating families, and working alongside our nursing team to make sure every child receives the care they need.

What inspired you to go into healthcare?

My journey into healthcare began while working as an Activities Assistant at a skilled nursing facility, where I spent nearly nine years caring for residents and building relationships with them and their families. Seeing the difference compassion and connection could make in someone's day inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare.

That experience led me to become a medical assistant, where I could continue serving others while growing professionally. Today, I'm grateful to be part of a team that allows me to care for children and support families every day.

What do you love most about your job?

The children are what make every day so rewarding. A doctor's office can be intimidating, especially when a child knows they're coming in for vaccines or lab work. I try to make those moments a little easier by singing, dancing, celebrating bravery with stickers and motivational pens, and reminding every child they're here for a reason—to stay healthy and keep growing strong. If a child leaves smiling instead of scared, that's a wonderful feeling.

I also love that there's always something new to learn. Every day presents a different situation, and I'm constantly growing both professionally and personally. That opportunity to keep learning while making a difference in the lives of children and their families is what makes this job so meaningful.

How do you feel your work impacts patients or the community?

Parents trust us with the people they love most. My hope is that every family leaves knowing their child was cared for not only medically, but emotionally as well. When children feel comfortable coming to the doctor, it helps build trust that lasts as they grow. Creating that positive environment is something our entire team works toward every day.

Can you share a moment or memory that has stayed with you during your time here?

One memory that has always stayed with me is when my coworkers surprised me by decorating the lab for my birthday. They made me feel valued and like I was truly part of a family. That experience reminded me how fortunate I am to work with a team that genuinely supports one another.

What does healing mean to you?

Healing is about more than treating an illness or helping someone recover physically. It's about creating a place where children and their families feel safe, supported, and cared for. Some of the most difficult experiences in my own life have given me a deeper appreciation for what compassion can mean during someone's hardest moments. Those experiences have shaped the way I care for others and remind me that a kind word, a listening ear, or simply making someone feel welcome can have a lasting impact. My hope is that every child and every parent who walks through our doors feels safe, valued, and knows they're never alone.

What's something people might not know about your role or department?

Many people don't realize how much happens behind the scenes during a pediatric visit. Our lab performs rapid testing, urine testing, manages inventory, and works closely with providers to keep care moving efficiently. Part of my position is spending a great deal of time educating parents about vaccines, answering questions, and helping families feel confident in the care their children receive. Every member of our team plays an important role in delivering safe, compassionate, high-quality care.

Through Humans Who Heal, Harris Regional Hospital is proud to recognize team members like Cindy, whose compassion, positivity, and dedication help children feel safe, families feel supported, and every visit becomes an opportunity to make a lasting difference.