A personal experience led her to nursing; professional growth keeps her at IU Health

Kathy Moon, MSN, RN, NE-BC, NPD-BC, has always had a passion for healthcare. Initially, she pursued a career as a pharmacist, but while in college, something just never quite felt right. It wasn't until her grandfather fell ill and was placed in hospice care at IU Health Methodist Hospital that Moon's path took a transformative turn.

"I saw the nurses caring for him and just fell in love," says Moon.

That one experience—witnessing the power of an IU Health nurse in action—changed everything for Moon.

Finding her purpose

In May 2007, Moon began her journey with IU Health as a registered nurse on the night shift organ transplant team at University Hospital. She found deep purpose in caring for patients post-transplant, helping them embrace their second chance at life.

"I was caring for people getting a second chance, a new lease on life," Moon says. She thrived in the critical thinking aspect of critical care nursing.

When the hospital opened a new ICU dedicated to post-transplant patients, Moon helped design the ideal space for patients and their care teams. Shortly after, Riley Hospital for Children followed suit, launching its pediatric post-transplant ICU. Moon played a pivotal role in this initiative, working there for two years.

A full-circle moment from her final days at Riley remains etched in her memory: On her second-to-last night, she cared for a pediatric patient whose family chose to donate their organs after their death. The next night, her final shift, Moon helped care for the recipient of one of those donated organs.

Sharing her passion

Moon's career took a new direction when she joined Arnett Hospital in the West Region, after a brief stint at West Hospital, in a role focused on nursing education.

"I didn’t realize I’d enjoy it so much," she says. Leading the region's Transition to Practice program, Moon helped new nurses find their footing in their careers.

"Seeing them be excited and learn new things made me more excited again," she says. Moon not only taught them “how to nurse” but also essential “how to adult” life skills like writing checks and navigating health insurance. In this role, she estimates that she helped more than 200 nurses get their start, many who still work at IU Health today.

Embracing growth

Reflecting on her career, Moon attributes her longevity at IU Health to the opportunities for growth and development.

"I’ve been able to grow and pursue different paths," she says. "I came here with an associate’s degree, and over the years I have been supported in earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees and in obtaining several nursing certifications."