Army Values Help Guide Endoscopy Nurse: Megan Ruddock’s Story

Megan Ruddock, RN, MSN, was no stranger to Albany Medical Center when she started her career here in 2017. Megan was born at the hospital, volunteered here as a teenager, and her mother, Billing Manager Kimberly Rees, has worked for the organization for more than 30 years.

After starting as a registered nurse in elective orthopedics, Megan joined the Digestive Diseases Center earlier this year and completed her master’s degree in Nursing Leadership and Administration over the summer. Megan is also a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, having served six years with two tours—Operation Inherent Resolve in 2018 and Operation Spartan Shield/Enduring Freedom in 2020. She is currently a Staff Sergeant in the Army National Guard.

Balancing education, nursing, military duties, and family has been no small feat, but having a supportive manager and team on A4 has made a world of difference for Megan.

She said, “The flexibility and camaraderie that exists here is unique. I feel supported on my unit, especially with my military commitments, being in the Army, being an Army spouse, and with my family.”

Nurse Manager Joanah Montojo said, “Megan is an inspiration with how she set her goals while being in the military and completing her master’s degree. I am proud of her, how far she has come, and how she is blooming where she’s planted.”

For Megan, her role as a nurse is more than just a job. She strives to treat each patient as if they are her family, upholding her commitment as a health care provider. The values she learned in the Army have carried over into her role as a nurse.

“The military has taught me flexibility, adversity, and the Army values: loyalty, duty, courage, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. I come to work every day with a positive attitude. I am here to make a difference in a person’s life,” she said.

For Megan, the work and the learning never stop. She lauds her supportive and knowledgeable colleagues for making the unit special.

“We see about 50 patients every day,” she said. “There are many nurses and endoscopy techs who have been here for more than 10 years. I have learned so much from them; there are not enough words to give them my gratitude. Everyone cares about what is in the best interest of the patients, and they all go above and beyond to answer the call.”