April 27, 2026, MORRIS, IL – Sometimes a career in healthcare begins with a personal experience that leaves a lasting impression. For Morris Hospital Respiratory Therapist Maegan Pfeifer, that moment came when her father was admitted to Morris Hospital and placed on a ventilator. While he was receiving care, Pfeifer got to know the respiratory therapists who supported him, and their compassion and expertise inspired her to follow a similar path. That experience sparked a passion that now shapes the care she provides to patients every day. In recognition of her contributions to Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers, Pfeifer has been named April Fire Starter of the Month.
Morris Hospital Director of Critical Care Services Laura Decker describes Pfeifer as a dependable and valued member of the team. “Maegan is an incredibly dedicated and reliable respiratory therapist,” Decker says. “Her ability to stay calm in stressful situations, along with her positive attitude, makes her an important support to others in the department. She is someone her teammates know they can count on, no matter the situation.”
Respiratory Therapy was not always part of Pfeifer’s plan. The Wilmington resident initially earned a degree in Psychology and was exploring job opportunities when her father became ill and she felt called to change career paths. After going back to school to study respiratory therapy, Pfeifer quickly found purpose in helping patients breathe easier and feel more comfortable during some of their most difficult moments. Today, patients continue to benefit from that same level of compassion and commitment that first inspired Pfeifer.
When asked what motivates her, Pfeifer says it is seeing the difference she can make in real time.
“It is incredibly rewarding to watch patients improve and get better,” she says. “I like that every day is different and that I have the chance to help people. Growing up in Morris makes this work even more meaningful to me. I love being able to care for people in my own community.”
Her impact goes beyond patient care. Pfeifer is known for supporting her coworkers, sharing her knowledge, and helping create a positive environment for both staff and patients. Whether she is mentoring students, assisting a teammate, or stepping in during a busy shift, she consistently brings a sense of calm and teamwork that strengthens the entire department.
In the Fire Starter nomination, a colleague shared how much Pfeifer brings to her role each day.
“Maegan puts her patients at ease with her smile and empathy,” the nomination reads. “She shows up ready to give her best and is always willing to share her knowledge, including with the students she mentors. She lives out the mission of our hospital in everything she does.”
In early civilizations, fire starters were individuals who had the important job of keeping the flame alive. With over 1,500 employees, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is the largest employer in Grundy County.
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