Ellie Baldus encompasses compassionate, heartfelt interactions

For those who have had the honor of meeting and getting to know Ellie Baldus, a guest services representative with SSM Health Cancer Care in Fond du Lac, the saying, “She wears her heart on her sleeve,” best reflects her personal and caring approach whenever present with another person - whether a friend, patient or family member.

And, because she takes this approach with every meeting, she leaves a long-lasting impression. As Ellie recently celebrated 25 years of service with SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac, her words still echo in the hearts and minds of her colleagues,

"This has never been a job to me; it has been my life’s work.”

In her nomination for SSM Health’s My Purpose Our Mission, a colleague shared: “Everyday there is something Ellie does to go above and beyond what is just required for her job role. On a typical day, Ellie is one of the first people in the building. She is the one who turns on the lights, makes sure everything is stocked, hangs banners for co-workers whose birthdays it is, notifies staff if there are specific events going on that day, greets everyone who walks in the building with a smile, and is always one of the last people to leave.”

What has led Ellie to have this passion for service? “My parents instilled a very strong work ethic in me, and I have always tried to do my very best at any job that I've had throughout my life,” she says. “The values that our ministry upholds make it so much more! In Fond du Lac, the story of Mother Agnes Hazotte and the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes who originally started our hospital, plus the addition of the story of Sister Odilia Berger and the Franciscan Sisters of Mary, have inspired me throughout the years to stand on their shoulders to provide the care to our neighbors that the sisters would approve of. I cannot imagine working at a non-faith-based organization because it takes the work to a higher level of commitment to our patients, their families and each other.”

Ellie’s compassionate focus helps patients and families often at their most difficult times. A colleague shares: “On top of the vast impact she makes on her co-workers, Ellie provides warm comfort and support to our patients. She offers them what most of us wish we could offer more of - a listening ear. There are so many times our patients are scared or stressed, and the fact that she takes the time to sit and listen to them makes the world of difference; this, in-turn, strengthens their trust in our staff.”

This outreach is a natural extension of Ellie’s personal passion. “Throughout the day, I strive to bring God's kindness, compassion and truth into each interaction. I want each person to feel they are valued and are a guest when they walk through the cancer center doors. Each morning on my way to work, I pray that God gives me periods of silence throughout the day to hear Him and the direction that He needs me to go in. I pray that He gives me the words to speak and His healing touch when I interact with each person.”

As a guest services representative, Ellie’s day leaves open many expected, and often unexpected, moments, which allows her to fulfill her purpose. “While I never know what my day is going to look like, I know that it is always going to be a good day! Life is about choices, and I am inspired to make the right choices when I follow the example of some incredible co-workers! Our cancer center is a great place - not because of the building itself or because of the wonderful technology - but because of the people. If you ever feel that you have lost your sense of purpose, come over here and see what mission in action looks like!”

Bill Daly, SSM Health Cancer Care director, shares, “I’ve been privileged to work with many outstanding individuals through my years of service, but have never met someone who is so dedicated and compassionate to our oncology patients! Ellie is a true inspiration to all!”

Connect your purpose to the SSM Health Mission. Explore current job opportunities, become a member of our talent community and learn more about our My Purpose Our Mission honorees at our Careers Site.