Marissa Johnston | Helping You Feel Better.
/PHARMACIST | WADLEY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
Marissa Johnston has had the opportunity to study and practice in the pharmaceutical industry for the past five years. Although this is her first year practicing full-time as pharmacist, she knew it was the profession she wanted to pursue for quite some time. Helping others live a healthy life is her goal, so sharing her knowledge and providing support to those who are not feeling their best is her mission.
photo by: ABBY ELLIOTT
What made you decide to be a pharmacist?
Similar to most, I think I can point to a combination of passion and a sense of natural curiosity that led to my decision to pursue a profession in the pharmaceutical industry. One’s health care and even medication, for most people, is a part of life from the beginning. I wanted to understand the meaning behind different issues and conditions, along with the accompanying medication that I started to see family members and friends experience. I’m also very passionate about improving the quality of life of others. That said, its fulfilling to have the opportunity to share my knowledge and provide support to others.
Name one thing about your profession that people might not know.
I think most people conceptualize the role of a pharmacist as being one that simply fills prescriptions when they’re placed. However, there are many different paths one could pursue as a pharmacist, including clinical, community, geriatric, home health, hospital, pharmacoeconomics, education, consulting, drug development/compounding, and more. The responsibility of a pharmacist is to help advance modern practices and medication in any way possible, which could range from servicing patients, advising on regulatory matters, or finding a way to improve the medication itself.
Who has helped you become the person you are today, and how did they inspire you?
I’m fortunate enough to have my mother, Susan Johnston, as a role model and my biggest inspiration. She is a hardworking woman with a caring personality, big heart, and strong faith. She embodies passion, determination, and strength, which are key attributes one should wield to make a positive impact. She is patient with every hardship that comes her way and seems to handle each with such grace. I think everyone should look for someone in their life to be there for them as she has been there for me. She helped me become the person I am today and the one I aspire to be tomorrow.
Tell us one thing you can’t do without on Thanksgiving Day and explain why.
Its not Thanksgiving without our homemade apple pie. It is a traditional dish for us, and the recipe has been passed down from my grandmother. I think what makes it special is that we are able to reminisce and preserve memories of loved ones that are no longer with us.
What do you love most about the Four States area?
As a native to the area, it is the place I will always call home. I have so many fond memories from the time I’ve spent here and with the people I’ve had the opportunity to meet. Four States area hospitality is second to none. I’m thankful for all the community has given to me to date and hope to give back to others that also call this place home.
What lessons have you learned from the pandemic?
In a time of self-reflection, the most important educational moment for me was understanding that time is all we have. I think it is important for people to spend what little time we have doing what they love with the people they love.
How would you like for others to remember you?
I simply hope that others are able to remember my personality, heart, and compassion. Nothing gives me more joy than helping and caring for others. I hope I will be remembered as one who had a positive impact on their life.
