In Her Own Words

Karlene Johnson Appreciates Nurse Practitioner Bonvillain’s Attentive Care

‘So Glad FHN is Here for Me’

“She is an excellent listener,” says Karlene, left, of Primary Care Provider Tamisha Bonvillain. The two enjoy a moment visiting on the walking paths behind the FHN Family Healthcare Center – Burchard Hills.

Karlene Johnson is “always learning” – a student of life through both education and experience. That’s why she brings a notebook with her to every healthcare appointment. “I need to make notes so I can document my experiences and research what I don’t understand,” she shares.

One reason she chose Tamisha Bonvillain, FNP-BC, IBCLC as her primary care provider is because Nurse Practitioner Bonvillain is a good listener and a patient explainer. “She takes her time with me and describes procedures and medications in detail, which of course I make note of. She is thorough, kind, and knowledgeable.”

Karlene calls Tamisha Bonvillain “Nurse Practitioner Bonvillain,” rather than Tamisha, because she respects the hard work put in to earn her credentials. “It may be a small thing,” she shares, “but using that title is my way to respect her perseverance, education, and experience.”

Primary Care Knows the Big Picture

Nurse Practitioner Bonvillain helps watch over several health issues and guides Karlene through challenges that arise. “I have AFIB, high blood pressure, problems with stomach acid, and ‘thick blood,’” says Karlene. “I get monthly bloodwork done, and Nurse Practitioner Bonvillain reviews my numbers and manages necessary changes. I trust her to keep it all straight. And though I did not pick her because she is Black, I do think it is wonderful to have diversity in the ranks at FHN. I have been happy with my selection!”

Karlene is especially aware of the challenges that come with AFIB, and remembers the day it became a problem. “I had just had knee replacement surgery and was in the hospital doing PT. I got tired very suddenly, and then felt dizzy and sweaty – it was obvious that something was off. Tests and consultations with cardiac care showed that I had AFIB, which may have been brought on by stress tied to caretaking. With regular care and medication, I am happy I don’t have problems with it very often,” she explains, “and my nurse practitioner is aware of all that history.”

Be Preventive

To stay as healthy as possible, Karlene adopts a common-sense approach, focused on prevention and approved by Nurse Practitioner Bonvillain. “I stay as active as I can, and don’t allow myself to sit around. I monitor my hydration, eat the right vegetables, and follow ‘doctor’s orders.’ And I love to socialize. Friends and family play a major role in my positive outlook. I believe one’s mental health is an important contributor to overall wellness,” she notes.

Indeed, relationships and social well-being are a core component of Karlene’s life. Though she has worked at seven jobs, many have focused on her degree in human services, where she learned to advocate for the power of connection.

She considers herself “a helper,” and currently shares those skills by working part-time as a Community Development Coordinator at the Boys and Girls Club of Freeport and Stephenson County. “These kids have so much potential,” she emphasizes. “If we can get them to embrace that potential, maintain their mental health, and avoid opiates and alcohol, they can be beacons of light.”

Be Positive

She also loves to travel, read, watch Western movies, and collect horses and elephants (trunks up!). A cruise to the “ABC Islands” was her most recent adventure, and she says it won’t be her last. “I love the ocean,” she enthuses, “and I enjoy heading to Las Vegas to visit family. It’s all part of my overall wellness plan!”

Though Karlene depends most on Nurse Practitioner Bonvillain, she appreciates the network of providers she consults as needed for unique concerns, and is grateful that FHN offers a breadth of specialty care. “I am so glad FHN is here for me. I see Nurse Practitioner Chelsea Hartzell (gastroenterology), Dr. Khan (nephrology), Dr. Bell (podiatry), Dr. Isawi (ophthalmology), the entire bloodwork team (phlebotomy), and others when necessary. And I also have to mention Dr. Laporta in anesthesiology, who was so kind to me, giving me a darling stuffed elephant and praying with me before my procedure. She was special. Life is special … and I count on all of these healthcare professionals to help me maintain my quality of life.”

To celebrate being alive, Karlene threw herself a party last August for her 70th birthday. As she nears her 71st, she is contemplating a new beginning – a possible master’s degree in social work. “Many of my family members have attained that distinction, and I think it might be time for me to join the club,” she shares. “Life is short. Enjoy it! Go for it! And make a difference.”