The wait times in our emergency departments are longer than usual due to illnesses like RSV and the flu. View our estimated ED wait times and learn more about where to get care for your sick child.

Respiratory therapist and chronic care lead shares her 22-year career experience at Children’s Minnesota

At Children’s Minnesota, we believe children always come first. They are awesomely resilient. Eternally optimistic. Totally fearless. They are what we want to be when we grow up. 

Melissa Damas, respiratory therapist and chronic care lead in our pulmonary and respiratory care program, has been working at Children’s Minnesota for 22 years now.

She is sharing all her favorite things about working at Children’s Minnesota below.

Melissa Damas, respiratory therapist and chronic care lead in our pulmonary and respiratory care program at Children's Minnesota.

What’s your position and how long have you been at Children’s Minnesota? 

“I’m a respiratory therapist and chronic care lead and I’ve been working at Children’s Minnesota for 22 years.” 

Tell us why you like your job and position. 

“My current position involves working with families of children who have special health care needs, such as a tracheostomy and ventilator, and training them to care for their child’s respiratory needs at home. It is so satisfying to see them progress from being nervous and scared to becoming confident and completely independent in caring for their child.” 

What do you like about working in this field/department? 

“I love that I get to spend most of my day with kids. Even on a busy day, I still get to sing and read books to patients.” 

Why do you like working at Children’s Minnesota? 

“Children are amazingly resilient. Even after going through very difficult situations, they still smile and move on. They truly are amazing.” 

Join the team! 

Children’s Minnesota is seeking qualified candidates to join our team! 

View our open position:  

More news stories

How to choose a pediatrician: a guide for first-time parents
We at Children’s Minnesota, including the pediatricians in our primary care clinics, care for kids and kids only. We’re here to help families explore their health care choices and find...
What are well-child check-ups and why does your child need them?
From feeding to colic to sleep issues, well-child visits are a great time to talk through just about anything with your child’s doctor. We at Children’s Minnesota want you to...
All about vaccines: for your baby’s health and community health
We at Children’s Minnesota, a health system devoted entirely to pediatric health, are here to help new parents feel educated, safe and confident that they’re making the right choice for...