From Caregiver to Patient, Hudak Expresses Gratitude

SEELEY LAKE – Kathy Hudak has lived in Seeley Lake for the past six years. She works as an Emergency Room (ER) technician at Community Medical, a paramedic with Missoula Emergency Services, Inc. (MESI) ambulance and as a flight medic with REACH Air Medical Services out of Helena, Mont. In the beginning of March, her role as caregiver turned to patient when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma.

Hudak started a career working in wildland fire with the US Forest Service for ten years. The USFS sent her for her Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) basic in Seattle.

"That's what started the madness of my career," said Hudak.

She joined the Eastside Fire and Rescue in North Bend, Wash. and worked as a firefighter for three years.

"I always admired the paramedics," said Hudak. "I was impressed with how they took care of people. That's what I wanted to do."

Hudak moved to Missoula to be closer to her sister. She took the paramedics class in 2000 and has been a medic since 2001. She would visit Seeley Lake with her sister who has a cabin on the lake.

"I wanted to live [in Seeley Lake] so I sold my house in Missoula," said Hudak. "I was sick of the big city life in Missoula. When I would visit my sister I knew this is where I'm supposed to be."

Hudak and her significant other, Seeley Lake Fire Chief Bob Vanden Heuvel, moved to Seeley Lake six years ago. Hudak continued to work all three jobs because she loves them. Her favorite part is being in a position to offer comfort to patients during a very scary time.

"This job is more than getting an IV started and the fancy paramedic stuff. It's about the people," said Hudak. "I tell my students the most important part of your job is to hold a patient's hand. It makes such a world of difference."

The first week of March, Hudak was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She started her first of 12 rounds of chemotherapy March 21.

After the first treatment, the lump on her neck that was bigger than a golf ball was gone.

"Bob and I call chemo God's medicine. It's working," said Hudak.

Hudak said that going from caregiver to being the patient is the most humbling experience she's ever had. She said she has seen blessings and miracles happen since her diagnosis.

"Now that I'm on the other side, the doctors and nurses are angels from heaven," said Hudak.

Hudak continued, "I can't even come close to saying thank you enough. I'm so grateful, thankful and appreciative for all the support we have received. It touches my heart and brings tears to my eyes."

A fundraising event for Hudak is set for April 23 at 6 p.m. in the Potomac/Greenough Community Center. There will be a spaghetti dinner, live and silent auctions and carnival games. Donations can also be made to Hudak via mail to PO Box 131, Seeley Lake, MT 59868.

 

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