Rhagen Smith

From a star on the basketball court to the hospital

Born to some people some people were born to be difference makers, rhagen smith is one of those!

< as a basketball player at sullivan high school and indiana state rhagen smith always had the spotlight on her.

"i took a lot of pride in being a role model for little girls when i was playing basketball" even though her basketball sneakers have been retired, the spotlight shines brighter than ever now on rhagen.

"now i'm a hero in real life to people everyday.

I get to take care of people in their most sick and vulnerable moments in their life.

That's a huge honor for me to be that kind of influence".

The wabash valley native is a nurse in the icu at union hospital in terre haute.

She's been on the frontlines helping people battle the coronavirus crisis.

"i could of never imagined going through something like this in my nursing career.

Not even been a nurse for three years and facing a pandemic.

Not really something nursing school can prepare you for.

We're going to end up in the history books next to florence nightengale, who was a pioneer in nursing.

Being able to adapt.

Be flexible for everything that's thrown at us.

Made me a better nurse.

Despite the dangers of her job right now, this hero still enjoys going to work and helping others.

"i truly love my job and fill so blessed that i get to go to work everyday.

Means world to me that i get to make a difference everyday when i go to work.".

Just like her playing days, rhagen is once again feeling the love from the community.

She says its truly helping her and so many other healthcare workers during these tough times.

"the extra support people have been showing us.

Sending us care packages.

Its been amazing.

Community has truly surrounded us at the hospital.

Given us extra courage we need to fight this virus.

> with illinois last week with