Daphne Pontius, NP

About Daphne The first in her family to enter the medical profession, Daphne Pontius knew in her early teens that she wanted to be a nurse. “I volunteered through Southwestern Michigan College’s Junior Health Corps,” she says. “I helped at the local hospital several days a week.” In addition, her own experience with exceptional nurses and providers during her first pregnancy sparked her love for women’s health. She chose to practice at Beacon Health System, and says she admired them as the premier provider of healthcare in the Michiana area. “I see myself in the mission of delivering outstanding care, inspiring health and connecting with heart.” And that aligns perfectly with Daphne’s overall philosophy of patient care. “My goal is to truly understand and be as helpful as possible when treating my patients,” she explains. “They know their bodies best, and they often have the best intuition and insights. I want them to feel empowered about their health and feel that their concerns have been heard.” Daphne’s message to her patients? “I really want to get to know you and connect with you. This enables me to be as helpful as possible during our time together.” In Her Own Words Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? My mother has  been the most influential person in my life. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I bussed tables for the Round Oak Restaurant in Dowagiac, MI. I learned about customer service and the value of observation and patience. What is your favorite food? Movie? My favorite food is my mother’s apple crisp. My favorite movie is You’ve Got Mail. What were your best/worst subjects in school growing up?  My best subjects were art, science, English, math and life skills. History was definitely the worst. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? I wish that I could have dinner with my grandmother. She passed in 2019, and I would love to be able to visit with her one last time. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? I am passionate about learning more about the world. I love to travel and explore new places. I am always reading books to broaden my horizons of selfimprovement and exploration. What are your hobbies, interests? I enjoy reading, crocheting, sewing, gardening and camping. Do you have any pets? Yes. One dog, Earl and one cat, Milo. What is something most people don’t know about you?  I lived in Japan for two years.