Laura Kanyimbo, DNP

About Laura Kanyimbo

When asked what she likes about her job caring for cardiology patients, Laura Kanyimbo, a Doctor of Nursing Practice answers easily: “I love caring for the sick to get them better, but I equally love to educate people so that they don’t get sick,” she says.

Through her professional education, Laura has learned that an educated mind is a powerful weapon. Since her family is primarily employed in education, teaching people is part of her. “I suppose education is intrinsically within me after all, as I do a great deal of educating in my profession, and I love it!” she says.

Her interest in medicine began with sciences in grade school. By high school, biology was her favorite subject, came easily and she began considering a career in medicine. Then, a personal experience solidified Laura’s decision. “One summer day I was violently ill and admitted to Memorial Hospital for immediate blood transfusions and other tests. I witnessed firsthand how the nurses and doctors worked urgently to save my life,” she says, adding, “I was overwhelmed with the care I got, and thought I could do the same for someone else someday.”

Laura’s sister, an internal medicine doctor, also influenced her direction. She went to Indiana University South Bend for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and then earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner, Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN.

“I’ve always had an interest in the cardiovascular system and how the heart works. I’m excited for a chance to learn and potentially affect my patients’ lives positively,” she says. “I take care of people during their most vulnerable times and nurse them to health.”

In treating patients, Laura believes patients should be equal participants in their care plans and health management. She says this helps to prevent noncompliance and ultimately, negative health outcomes.

Patients have taught her a great deal of patience and empathy. From her, Laura hopes they know that she truly wants them to live healthier and happier lives, because she believes health is wealth! Laura’s philosophy as a provider is, “Do eat everything in moderation, Do take medicine for your condition, and Do exercise regularly!”

In her own words…

Who is or was the most influential people/role models in your life? The most influential person in my life is my mother.

What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? My first job was working at Burger King. I remember working the drive thru, making Whoppers, and taking orders from customers.

What is your favorite food? Movie? Favorite food: fruits (bananas, oranges, grapes, watermelon). Favorite movie: The Sound of Music

What was your best/worst subjects in school growing up? My favorite subject was biology, music was arguably my worst.

If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? I would love a chance to dine with my father. He died when I was only six years old.

In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? Interestingly, my other passion is agriculture. I enjoy growing and cultivating food crops.

What are your hobbies, interests? I love jogging, gardening, and reading medical journals.

What is something most people don’t know about you? Most people don’t know that I live a very low-profile life.