Page 111 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2026

the field. She earned her EMT certification before realizing
nursing was where she wanted to build her career. Today, she
serves as both a flight nurse and an emergency-certified nurse
practitioner.
Irey said she has seen more women entering emergency
medicine in recent years, including physicians, nurse
practitioners, and physician assistants. “There is a huge
resurgence,” she said.
She believes female providers often bring an added level
of comfort for patients facing sensitive medical situations,
particularly women dealing with pregnancy or other personal
health concerns.
One of her favorite parts of emergency medicine is solving
complex cases. “It’s almost like being an ER detective,” she said.
“They give you some vague symptoms, and you have to really go
in and do a thorough assessment.”
For young women considering the field, Irey encourages
curiosity, networking, and hands-on experience. “Do some job
shadowing so you know exactly what it is and what it
entails,” she said. “You never know where you’re going
to end up but always leave all your options open.”
But some emergencies unfold long after the sirens fade.
Therapist Bailey Heuser responds to a different kind
of crisis—helping people navigate the lasting effects of
trauma. Inspired by watching someone close to her battle
severe PTSD after military service, she changed career
paths to support others on their healing journeys.
Today, Heuser works with first responders, military
members, and others navigating trauma, addiction, and
mental health challenges. She believes one of the most
important lessons for women entering the profession is learning
to care for themselves before caring for others.
“You have got to do your own work before you can sit in the
chair across from somebody else to help them,” Heuser said.
That includes being willing to seek therapy themselves.
“You have to sit on the other side of that couch,” she said, “and
make sure that you are stable and healthy to show up and be
that kind of rock for your clients.”
Whether they’re stabilizing patients in an ambulance, flying
critically ill patients to specialized care, or helping people recover
from emotional trauma, these women are proving emergency
medicine extends far beyond the walls of a hospital. Their
work begins in life’s most uncertain moments, bringing skill,
compassion, and hope when patients need it most.
Heather Lemoine
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