I Love My Community: Penny Meyers
Penny Meyers, a retired registered nurse and lifelong resident of Lodi, sat down with HERLIFE Magazine recently to share her dedication to family and community.
HLM: How long have you lived here? What do you love most?
PM: I have lived in Lodi my whole life! A true “stuck in Lodi,” like the song. I love the small town feel and beautiful scenery, the vineyards and country areas and the Mokelumne River flowing through. It’s so nice to have all the wineries and live music to enjoy.
HLM: How is your heart inspired to serve the community?
PM: I was drawn to the field of nursing because of my desire to serve others. I started out by working in a convalescent home, then Lodi Community Hospital in the Medical Surgical unit, Emergency Room and ICU. I went on to work for a medical group where I discovered my passion for oncology, before transitioning to Kaiser in Stockton where I opened an infusion center. I ended up transferring to Kaiser in South Sacramento where I started an inpatient PICC program and then went on to the outpatient oncology department. I spent much of my career taking care of cancer patients and I loved it because I was able to see my patients regularly and became close to them, learning about their lives and feelings, being there for people in a time of need, a time filled with fear and vulnerability for most. Many hardships passed through my chairs and I always tried to give my patients a ray of sunshine and lift their spirits. It was a lot of emotion to take in and a challenging balance to strike, being honest with them while offering hope.
HLM: What sparks joy for you?
PM: My first grandchild, Ivy Mae, brings me so much joy! I cherish my family and friends and enjoy traveling to new places, yoga, a great walk, golfing, sharing wine and a great chat with a friend. I love a good laugh and a good song to dance to!
HLM: Top three bucket list goals?
PM: Travel, travel and travel! I’ve attempted to travel to Vietnam four times, most recently even making it all the way there in March 2020 only to find out the world had shut down after I landed and I had to turn around and come back home! I plan to go back in
the spring.
HLM: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
PM: Raising great, productive and loving children.
HLM: Can you describe a key event that had an impact on your life?
PM: Losing my son Joe at the age of 20. Life is short; enjoy every moment you can.
HLM: Do you have a favorite quote?
PM: “A person who knows how to laugh at himself will never cease to be amused.” ~Shirley MacLaine
HLM: What are you currently reading?
PM: Twenty Years Later by Charlie Donlea.
PM: Favorite food or dessert?
PM: Chips and salsa, dark chocolate and salty caramel.
