Paul Clagett, RN

Bio

I was born in Whittier, California, too many years ago. In the mid 60's we moved to Houston, Texas when my dad was assigned to work at the NASA space center there. After high school I played in a rock and roll band for several years until I decided to get a "real job." Having an interest in the medical field I obtained my certification as a Respiratory Therapist in 1975. I eventually graduated from University of Texas in 1985 with my BSN. I started working in emergency nursing and did so for 20 years.

After getting married in 1989 we moved to California, eventually settling in Santa Rosa and I started my nursing career with Kaiser. In 2003, after 12 years in the Emergency Department, we needed to relocate back to Texas for family reasons. During the 3 years spent there I was able to start working for a local hospice.

In 2006 we moved back to Sonoma County. I wanted to return to work at Kaiser and was able to start back in the Emergency Deprtment. After a short while I found out that a Palliative Care program was to be started at Kaiser Santa Rosa and I knew that's where I wanted to be. I was very fortunate to be given the position as Nurse Coordinator for Palliative Care. It is a distinct honor to work with the other members of the Palliative Care team. I believe we bring a much needed service to Kaiser, helping our members as they struggle to deal with serious, advancing illnesses.

My Medical Specialty

More details about my specialty:

I have been a nurse for 24 years and have always had an interest in end-of-life care. The most rewarding and fulfilling nursing I have done was the time spent working in hospice and now in palliative care. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for patients as they face a serious, life-limiting illness by helping with planning, goals and symptom management as well as support.

Photos from My Training Years or of Practicing Medicine in My Field:

Nursing school graduation day- 1985!

Interests

Currently reading:
Infected: A Novel by Scott Sigler

My favorite book or author:
Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

Great movie:
The Killing Fields; Saving Pvt. Ryan; Million Dollar Baby

Hobby Photos & Links:

Rockin' & Rollin' back in "the day"

My friend Scott and me playing at a club in Texas.

Family & Friends

People in my life:

My wife is an elementary school teacher in Petaluma, CA. She is a breast cancer survivor.

My children and people I care about:

Our son is currently a senior at Casa Grande High School in Petaluma, CA.

Photos of my Family & Friends:

With my wife, Marj.

Son Jordan taking a break from his favorite pastime.

The family at Ride for the Roses, 2005

We have 2 cats, Whispurr and PurrC and, the newest member of the family, Kit, the dog.

Pet Photos:

Whispurr on top, Purr C below.

Kit, the dog

Travel

An adventure I've had:

I've not done much traveling but for me the most exciting trip I've taken was my first time in New York City shortly after 9/11. My brother and his wife lived in Staten Island at the time and were perfect tour guides. Visiting "Ground Zero" was very emotional and something I wll never forget. I presented a banner, made by students at my wife's elementary school, to a fire house in Staten Island that had lost several firefighters on that tragic day.

Favorite place in the world:

Hawaii! Why wouldn't it be? I'm also quite partial to New York City. It's such a facinating place.

Travel Photos:

Manhattan twilight

Central Park, NYC

Presenting a banner honoring Engine Company 165 and Ladder Company 85 of Staten Island.

A Photo of One of My Favorite Places:

Maui wowie