Divone Morris, Respiratory Therapist – Paying it Forward

Journey to Respiratory Therapy

Childhood events can define a lifetime of service. Divone Morris has a special passion and commitment for being a respiratory therapist. At the age of 11, Divone watched and waited outside the emergency room while respiratory therapists, nurses and other clinicians gave their all to try to save the life of his infant sister. Divone knew at that moment that he wanted to “pay it forward” and make that same difference in others’ lives.

He began his journey at the University of Arizona as a pre-nursing major. He then moved in a slightly different direction and pursued his current career as a respiratory therapist. Opportunities to make a real, positive impact as well as the flexibility and variety such a career offers, drew him to the field of respiratory therapy.

When it came time to begin his life as a professional RT, Divone chose Northside Hospital. When evaluating his career options, he came to Northside for the inspiring culture Northside fosters. Divone says, “I believe in the culture and focus that the hospital has. Delivering hospitality from the heart is a philosophy we all share at Northside.”

Life at Northside

At Northside, Divone’s day is unpredictable and exciting as it starts with meeting the respiratory therapist from the previous shift. Together, they review any new orders or modifications to existing orders. The meeting helps Divone formulate a game plan which enables him to manage his time and deliver exceptional patient care throughout the day. He also collaborates closely with the nursing staff on his shift to build rapport and ensure continuity of care. Respiratory Therapists engage in various settings throughout Northside – including the emergency department, ICU, NICU, labor and delivery, and general floors.

Working as a Respiratory Therapist provides Divone with an incredibly rewarding career. He says, “The most rewarding part of my role is knowing that I can make a difference in the world. Each day I fight for a better tomorrow for the generations to come.”

What advice would Divone give an individual aspiring for a career in respiratory therapy? “Believe in yourself. Even when you feel like you can’t, you can. There is never an easy moment in respiratory therapy. A wise woman once told me, ‘When you can’t breathe, there’s nothing else in the world that matters’.”