Ascension nurse's personal journey leads her to working with children

Victoria Ganadara-Snell, nurse at Ascension Providence, will soon transition into a new role at Dell Children’s. After reading about a pediatric ICU nurse position, she knew this was the best next step in her career, and to fulfill her passion for working with pediatric patients.

Victoria was born with a cleft lip and cleft palate, and had multiple surgeries throughout her life from the time she was born until age 21.

“It’s been a really long journey to get to where I am today,” said Victoria.

Victoria was born into a Catholic family in El Paso, TX. Her family encouraged her to turn her birth condition into a gift rather than something that would hold her back. At that time, her family struggled to make payments for her surgeries. When her doctor heard about this, he did some of her surgeries for free. Victoria said becoming a nurse is her chance to give back. She knew she wanted to work with children.

“Based on my experience, I understand how vulnerable children are, and the struggles parents face when their children are facing medical challenges,” said Victoria. “I want to be there for kids like me and provide them with reassurance and comfort.”

Victoria’s new role at Dell Children’s will begin in October.