Live Webinar: Thursday, July 24th, 2025 - 10:00-11:00(CST)

Description:
This interactive Zoom session, led by educator and brain tumor survivor Shari Bookstaff, explores the vital role Sterile Processing professionals play in patient care—even without direct patient contact. Through personal storytelling, real-world examples, and guided reflection, participants will gain a renewed sense of purpose and understand the ripple effect of their work on patient safety, surgical outcomes, and the overall care experience.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Understand how empathy applies to behind-the-scenes roles and contributes to a culture of compassionate care.
2. Reflect on the impact of their work from a patient’s perspective.
3. Identify practical ways to stay connected to purpose and mission, even without direct patient interaction.

Speaker and Speaker's Bio: 

Shari Bookstaff is an educator, speaker, author, and founder of Impact of Empathy, an organization dedicated to helping healthcare professionals recognize the vital role empathy plays in every aspect of patient care—including behind the scenes in departments like Sterile Processing.

In 2006, Shari survived a life-threatening brain tumor that left her temporarily unable to speak, eat, or walk. Her long journey through recovery gave her a deep appreciation for the often-unseen healthcare professionals who contribute to patient healing. She understands firsthand how the dedication and precision of Sterile Processing teams directly impact safety, outcomes, and quality of care.

Shari is also the author of When Life Throws You Lemons...Make Cranberry Juice!, a memoir that chronicles her powerful story of resilience, humor, and the life-changing impact of compassionate care. With over 30 years of experience as a biology professor, she combines science, storytelling, and insight to deliver engaging presentations that reconnect healthcare teams with purpose and pride.

Her message to SPD professionals is simple but powerful: your work saves lives—and empathy can be practiced in every role, even without direct patient contact.

With Moderator: Natalie Lind