ALLINA HONORS AREA NURSE
Joanne Sorenson, Blooming Prairie, accepts a special award from Allina. She has been a registered nurse for more than 40 years and has no plans to quit. Submitted photo
“I love to work” and “that’s the truth.”
Registered Nurse Joanne Sorenson of Blooming Prairie expressed those simple sentiments as she addressed a group of more than 200 family and friends on Monday, Feb. 4.
Sorenson was one of eight employees recognized by Allina Health in the company's Minneapolis auditorium. She works in the mental health department.
Wearing her blue uniform, Sorenson said it is “so rewarding” to put a hand on someone “and to give them comfort.” She has logged 43 years in nursing.
Sorenson, who worked on a farm in Frost, Minn., during her younger years, said she knew that her father was right when he said, “hard work” and “determination” were needed to succeed in life.
She said her dad would be so proud on this particular night. “He lost the farm during the Depression,” she said.
No plans to quit
“I have no plans to hang up my uniform,” Sorenson said. While not revealing her actual age, Sorenson did acknowledge that she is over 80. She said as long as God gives her health to work, she would be there.
Sorenson, who has worked mostly in Owatonna, was nominated for the honor by Jules Volkmann, a co-worker. Volkmann calls Sorenson her adopted grandmother.
Joanne and her husband, Roger, are the parents of Kelly Jo and Jeff. Kelly Jo was killed by a drunk driver more than 35 years ago.
Sorenson said the nursing field is wide open and many medical related opportunities are available. She graduated from nursing school in 1981. The Sorensons have been married for 62 years. They love to travel and have been to Germany, Norway and London.
Joanne Sorenson is an active member of First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. She is also an active member of the wine club, a member of the Owatonna Hospital Auxiliary, and a member of the Steele County Historical Society.