Maria Curry, RN

Geriatric Care Manager

NJ State Registered Professional Nurse

From the time I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a nurse. I can’t say exactly how I knew nursing to be my calling, but I suspect the fact that my older cousin, who was like a sister to me, was a nurse, must have had something to do with it.

When I graduated from college with my shiny new RN degree, I accepted a job on one of the specialized departments at the Burn Unit of St. Barnabas Hospital. That was a very challenging unit with many severely injured patients in need of highly skilled care and a lot of caring and patience. It tested my fortitude but it also reinforced that I was where I was supposed to be and that I was meeting my calling.

During my 12-year run at St. Barnabas, I spent time on the Medical-Surgical and Diabetes units as well as in the Utilization Review, Quality Review and Case Management departments. Outside of my hospital work, my own family members (as well as friends) relied on me to guide them through the illnesses of loved ones. I was happy to share my skills in this way. Looking back, I gained valuable, varied experience in many different care arenas. This well-rounded experience helps me to be a better care manager.

Throughout my nursing career, I’ve always had a fondness for working with the elderly. I love hearing my elderly patients tell me their life stories, hearing the life lessons they’ve learned, and the history they’ve witnessed.

People of any age deserve to be treated with respect, to have a voice, and to be supported. I am passionate about helping this special population, guiding them and their families through life’s twists and turns, and ensuring that they not only receive the best care and advice, but that they are always treated with love and compassion.