CORVALLIS, Ore. – Eight years ago, Kayde Schaefer was behind the plate catching for the Oregon Tech softball team in the NAIA Championship game. Now, she’s on the front line catching COVID patients as they come into the Emergency Department.
Schaefer is an Emergency Medicine Resident in Saint Joseph, Mich., taking care of patients from babies to geriatrics. She graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine this year with a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.
Prior to her residency, Schaefer was able to spend some time at home to finish her studies before jumping right into the fire in the ER.
“I was able to spend three months at home in Oregon with my family for which I will never have time again,” said Schaefer. “I was doing home studying and to spend time with family, I am grateful COVID gave that to me.”
At OIT, Schaefer graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science degree in 2012. She was a three-year starter for the Owls and won the Cascade Collegiate Conference Golden Glove Catcher Award her senior year. She helped the Owls win the 2011 NAIA Championship and was named to the All-Tournament Team.
Schaefer believes her time as a student-athlete helped prepare her for life outside of the diamond.
“I believe I was more prepared for life by being a student-athlete,” said Schaefer. “I learned how to juggle the demands of school, athletics, and my social life which has translated to me being able to juggle work, studying, and a social life. I felt the pressure of being an athlete and learned how I cope, which has allowed me to be prepared for the pressure of the Emergency Department.”
While there can be craziness in the medical field, especially during the pandemic, Schaefer has seen some positives too.
“I have witnessed more care and compassion from nursing staff, techs, and support staff that was always present but has become more prominent,” said Schaefer.
Schaefer’s faith also keeps her positive and grounded through the craziness.
“I wish people knew we will all get through this pandemic,” said Schaefer. “Fear and anxiety over the uncontrollable can cause harm. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is with us always and willing to listen and bring comfort in times of uncertainty.”