10/27/2026
As we kickoff Respiratory Care Week, help us congratulate Ginger Montgomery, Mercy Washington's first-ever Respiratory Therapist of the Year! She was selected by a hospital-wide nomination process to highlight RTs who exemplify exceptional patient care, teamwork, compassion, professionalism and dedication.
As we celebrate Ginger's well-deserved recognition, we asked her to share a little about her journey and what being named RT of the Year means to her.
❓What inspired you to become a respiratory therapist?
"I lost both my parents to pulmonary issues, my baby was a preemie and my middle child was an asthmatic in the hospital a lot. It just made sense."
❓What is the most rewarding part of being an RT?
"The appreciation I get from my patients is what drives me to continue."
❓What career accomplishment are you most proud of?
"Becoming an RT and winning RT of the Year."
❓What is your favorite thing about working at Mercy Washington?
"My team."
❓What does being named RT of the Year mean to you?
"Sometimes you put so much into what you do without stopping to think about whether anyone notices. Being nominated has reminded me that even when I don't see the impact I'm making, others might. Knowing my co-workers see and appreciate those efforts means more to me than they probably realize."
The new RT of the Year award was created to celebrate the outstanding work performed by our entire Respiratory Therapy team every day.