Day Kimball Healthcare’s (DKH) Diagnostic Imaging department is where you will find Nicole Richardson doing what she does best, providing compassionate care to her patients.

For many women, an annual mammogram can trigger anxiety or fear. That’s when women like Nicole make all the difference. As lead mammography technologist, Nicole enjoys caring for women during what can be a scary and uncomfortable experience.

In her role as lead mammography technologist, Nicole oversees the daily operations of the digital imaging center unit including management of scheduling, workflow, and other administrative responsibilities, but she is also able to continue to see patients and provide mammogram exams. “My favorite part of this job is truly patient interaction,” said Nicole. “I like being able to build long-lasting relationships with our patients. In my role, I do a lot of reassuring patients with exam results, and I enjoy being able to calm patients and help them through the process.”

Getting to know Nicole, you quickly realize she has a huge heart and a genuine passion for helping others. Nicole knew from a young age that she was destined to pursue a career in healthcare. When she was in high school, Nicole’s mother, who she described as her best friend growing up, was diagnosed with cancer. After numerous doctor appointments and time devoted to caring for her mother, Nicole became inspired to choose an occupation that would allow her to help others.

Nicole attended Griswold High School where she became actively involved with volleyball, began working as a CNA at Villa Maria Nursing Home in Plainfield, and met her high school sweetheart, Brian.

She attended the University of Hartford from 2008 to 2012. While there she began doing clinical work at Manchester Hospital where she was later hired after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a radiologic technology certification. “I was driven to improve the mammography department at Manchester Hospital,” said Nicole. “Once the position for lead mammography technologist opened up, I immediately applied and was eager to learn that I had been selected for the position.”

In 2018, with a desire to be closer to home, and eager to move on to her next adventure, Nicole joined Day Kimball Healthcare as the Diagnostic Imaging department’s lead mammography technologist. When asked why she likes practicing at DKH, Nicole said, “I love the woman I work with. The technologists here are wonderful and we care a lot about our patients.”

In her spare time, she is usually found spending time with her friends, kayaking, spending time with Brian and her pets Chloe (Morkie), Xena (German Shepard), and Little Man (cat), or doing yardwork.

Read on to learn more about Nicole including plans to build a forever home with her high school sweetheart and more, in this edition of 13 Questions.

1. I grew up in: Griswold, CT for most of my life. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, lived in Oklahoma for some time, and moved to this area in 7th grade.
2. Who’s on your playlist? A little bit of everything. Country seems to be my go to!
3. What’s your favorite movie? Sweet Home Alabama.
4. What’s your favorite color? Red.
5. What was the last thing you read? Behind Closed Doors by B A Paris. I LOVE murder mysteries.
6. Who is your hero? My mom. From 4 years old, she raised me by herself and took on both roles as mother and father. She did whatever she needed to do to make sure I had what I needed growing up. Although I may not need her as much anymore, I talk to her every day and she is still always there for me.
7. Pets or no pets? (name them, if so.) PETS! I have two dos and a cat; Chloe (Morkie), Xena (German Shepard), and Little Man (cat). Chloe, who is 7 years old, was a college graduation gift from my mom.
8. Name something on your bucket list. To build a forever home. My mom and I moved around often while growing up before settling down in CT. I have never had a “forever home” so this has always been a goal for me and my husband. Brian and I are currently in the process of purchasing land in Canterbury so we hope that we can check this off the bucket list soon!
9. What’s your “go-to” comfort food? CHOCOLATE. Anything with chocolate involved.
10. Smartphone, tablet or desktop? Smartphone!
11. People would be surprised to know that: I have been together with my husband for 13 years, married for 1. We started dating our sophomore year of high school.
12. What’s your current health focus (for you personally)? Do what I need to feel good in my own skin again. To me that means; eat healthier and work out more.
13. What’s your favorite place in northeast Connecticut? Pachaug. Living in Griswold I have found that I love the woods and all that it offers. You can hike, swim, camp, kayak, etc.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:
Top: Nicole Richardson, lead mammography technologist, with Day Kimball Healthcare Diagnostic Imaging
Top Middle: Nicole and her mother who she describes as her hero.
Bottom Middle: Nicole with her high school sweetheart and husband, Brian. 
Bottom: Nicole and Brian’s two dogs seven year old Chloe (left) and five year old Xena (right).