If there’s a glue that holds a surgical day together, it might just be Kara.
Resourceful, funny, and relentlessly helpful, Kara is part of the behind-the-scenes engine that keeps Vertrae® running smoothly—from setting up trays at 6 a.m. to helping patients feel welcome when they walk in the door. And while she may not always be center stage, her work impacts every aspect of the patient journey.
Whether she’s scrubbing into surgery or answering phones at the front desk, one thing never changes: her focus on making someone’s day easier.
“I’m always looking for ways to help things run more smoothly—and I’ll never hesitate to jump in where I’m needed,” she says. “That’s just who we are here.”
Why Surgery Was the Perfect Fit
Kara always knew she wanted to help people—but didn’t know how until she stepped into the OR for the first time. That’s when everything clicked.
“Being hands-on with a treatment that helps someone heal both physically and mentally? That’s exactly the kind of impact I want to have. That’s what keeps me coming back.”
At Vertrae®, she’s involved in every phase of the surgical process—sterilizing instruments, prepping the OR, managing supplies, coordinating with reps, and yes, even keeping tabs on the linen orders and trash pickups. (Trust us, nothing slips through the cracks with Kara.)
Why She Chose Vertrae®
What makes Vertrae® different? Kara doesn’t hesitate: It’s the people.
“We know our patients by name. We treat them like individuals, not numbers. That warmth and connection—it’s real. And it matters.”
Even though much of her role is operational, Kara always finds time to greet patients, answer their questions, or make them feel at home. And for her, there’s nothing more meaningful than seeing a patient’s journey from pre-op nerves to post-op relief.
How She Stays Grounded
Kara brings a light-hearted energy to the team—even when the day gets heavy. Her secret weapon? Laughter.
“Everyone’s allowed to have a hard day. That’s just life. But being encouraging, keeping it positive—especially with humor—that’s how we support each other and stay grounded.”
Her favorite advice to patients? Simple and sincere:
“Dr. Woods is incredible. And he’s built a team that reflects how much he cares. We all show up for our patients—because we believe in what we do.”
Beyond Work: Kara in Real Life
When she’s not powering through surgery days, Kara’s spending time with her family—whether that’s cheering at games, camping, boating, or building something in the garage. She’s a proud mom of three, a cake decorator on the side, and a big fan of floating in the pool on summer evenings.
“Our life is busy—but full,” she laughs. “There’s never a dull moment.”
A Few of Kara’s Favorites
🎤 Hidden Talent: Entered a 6th-grade talent show (they didn’t win—but no regrets)
☕ Coffee Order: Caramel Macchiato (Starbucks or Dunkin—no discrimination)
🌮 Favorite Food: Mexican anything (with a side of Chick-fil-A nuggets, of course)
🧠 Dream Skill: Being in more than one place at once—to never miss a moment with her kids
Final Thought
Kara may be behind the scenes—but her presence is felt everywhere.
From helping surgeries run smoothly to adding laughter to long days, she’s the kind of teammate and caregiver that brings warmth, energy, and heart into everything she does.
Because at Vertrae®, every role matters. And people like Kara make sure no one is ever just “another patient.”
