A Lifelong Learner and Compassionate Caregiver: Honoring ROSE Award Winner Luci Fattore-Eddy

Job Seeker, ROSE Winners

Luci Fattore-Eddy, a seasoned Allied health provider dedicated to patient care and continuous learning, has recently earned the prestigious ROSE Award from Aureus Medical. With over two decades of experience in diagnostic imaging, Luci’s journey is a testament to resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to her profession.

Rooted in Resilience

Luci’s story begins in Southern New Jersey, where she was born and raised. She graduated from Washington Township High School in 1988 and later earned her Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia in 1995. Although her initial passion was for ultrasound, she discovered a love for MRI while still a student. This discovery set the course for a long and fulfilling career in diagnostic imaging.

Her professional journey wasn’t without challenges. Luci grew up with a learning disability, which she describes as a significant struggle during her early years. However, the determination of her father, who battled heart disease, cancer, and diabetes—and her best friend Lisa, who fought ovarian cancer for 11 years—inspired her to persevere. Luci’s father passed away when he was 56, and Lisa at 48, but their courage left an indelible mark on her.

“They made me realize I had to believe in me…they did,” Luci reflects. These experiences shaped her understanding of the healing power of empathy, a lesson she carries into her work every day.

Embracing Change and Continuous Learning

After spending 25 years in Southern New Jersey, where she worked at Atlantic Medical Imaging with a small group of Radiologists, got married, and raised her two children, Luci felt the pull of a new challenge. In September 2022, after a year of contemplation, she took the leap into traveling with Aureus Medical. This decision opened new doors for Luci, allowing her to blend her love for teaching others with her clinical expertise.

Luci’s favorite aspect of being a traveling clinician is the opportunity to learn and grow from every interaction. “No circumstance I have found detrimental to my journey,” she explains. “No doctor, no co-worker, no patient is insignificant to my development or I to theirs! We are all teachers!” This mindset has helped her adapt to new environments and made her a beloved team member wherever she goes.

Her colleagues have noticed her positive impact. One recent assignment appraisal reads, “It was a pleasure to work with Luci. Her work ethic was superb. I am impressed with her patient care skills.” Another noted, “We are very sad to see Luci’s contract come to an end and would have her back in a heartbeat. She fit right in with our team and was able to independently scan in a small amount of time and training. We hope to see her back in the future, and we could only wish she’d come back as a permanent team member.”

A Heartfelt Moment of Recognition

Receiving the ROSE Award was an emotional experience for Luci. “I was shocked, thrilled, honored, touched, and most grateful that Aureus included my children in this award presentation!” she says, noting the importance of family in her life.

Her dedication to patient care is evident in the praise she receives from colleagues and patients. A handwritten note from a patient sums it up best: “So many people don’t seem to understand what it is like to be in pain, but you did! You were so kind to do all that you could to make me comfortable. To you, you might have just been doing your job, but to me, it meant the world.”

Beyond the Clinic

Outside of work, Luci is a devoted mother to her two children: a 25-year-old daughter pursuing her RN career and a 23-year-old son who travels the world as an electrician and musician. She is also a loving pet parent to Tilly, her 16-year-old Shih Tzu, who accompanies her on her travels.

Now residing in Sarasota, Florida, Luci enjoys relaxing on the beach, exploring downtown, and spending time with friends and family. She values taking time between contracts to “re-ground and find Luci,” recognizing the importance of self-care and reflection in her demanding profession.

Luci’s journey is one of resilience, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to learning. Her ability to connect with patients and colleagues alike, combined with her unwavering dedication to her craft, makes her a truly deserving recipient of the ROSE Award. As one co-worker put it, “Luci is awesome, and I feel fortunate to work with her!”

Jennifer Melham is a healthcare staffing content specialist based in Southern California, known for engaging and informative articles tailored to healthcare leaders and clinicians. With a passion for celebrating the invaluable work of nurses and other healthcare providers, her writing offers insightful perspectives on workforce trends and practices.