Meet New Social Worker Makala Nitkowski

We’d like to extend a heartfelt welcome to Makala Nitkowski. Makala joins Angela Herr as a heart transplant/mechanical circulatory support social worker at UMMC, replacing Natalia Carlson. She brings a wealth of experience and warmth to the organization. We are thrilled to have her on our team. Read more about Makala in her own words.

When did you join the M Health Fairview Cardiology team, and what drew you to this role as a social worker?

I have always had a passion for medical social work; however, I have been drawn to cardiology because of my grandfather and his journey with heart failure.

Can you share a bit about your professional background?

Prior to joining Fairview, I previously completed my graduate internship in Milwaukee, WI on a trauma unit assessing a wide variety of severe traumas, such as motor vehicle collisions, gunshot wounds, and assaults. Upon moving to Minnesota, I transitioned into a partial hospitalization program where I was supporting adolescents with OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and eating disorders.

How do you approach working with patients and their families who are facing advanced heart failure or are preparing for a transplant?

I try to approach working with each patient and their families with curiosity, patience, and empathy. Everyone is in a different stage of their diagnosis and has different needs, questions, support, and coping strategies. I always try to meet people where they are at.

What do you find most rewarding about supporting patients with advanced heart failure or those undergoing heart transplants?

I find it incredibly rewarding to be a part of a team who can provide an opportunity to prolong someone’s life - to be able to give them another chapter to write in their story. It’s a very surreal opportunity to be here and to work with each patient and their family.

How do you help patients and their families navigate the emotional, psychological and financial challenges associated with heart failure and the transplant process?

Being a constant source of support and actively listening to the needs of each patient and family.

What is one thing you wish more patients and families understood about managing advanced heart failure or the emotional aspects of the transplant journey?

Leaning on your support system or asking for help doesn’t mean you are weak or incapable. It is a challenging and lengthy journey, ask questions and give yourself grace.

Outside of work, what are some of your personal interests or hobbies that help you maintain balance in your life?

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my fiancé and our puppy! We spend lots of time outside, going on walks and playing frisbee. I also enjoy working out, baking, and reading.

Could you share a fun or interesting fact about yourself that might surprise your patients or colleagues?

I was born with 8 toes on my right foot when I was born – I had major reconstructive surgery on my foot and have since run a marathon!