Marjorie Billock
From the moment her father told her she’d make a great nurse, an 8-year-old Marjorie Billock knew her career path was set. Now 28 years into a distinguished nursing career, Marjorie has cared for patients all over the country, following her husband’s Navy career.
In 2024, she brought her wealth of experience to Akron Children’s Allergy department. For Marjorie, nursing is more than a profession; it’s a deeply personal commitment to building relationships and providing compassionate care to patients and their families. And, it’s a responsibility she doesn’t take lightly.
One of the most fulfilling parts of Marjorie’s job is the face-to-face, hands-on patient care she gets to provide as part of her job.
“Nursing is a profession that can’t be replaced by computers,” she said. “I enjoy the face-to-face interaction with patients and families. There is a commonality among all of us, and I enjoy getting to know our patients.”
Marjorie is keenly aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and that includes carving out time for herself and her friends and family. To avoid burnout, she is intentional with her time, setting a daily routine that includes exercise, walks during lunch breaks and reading good books. This balance ensures she has the energy and focus needed to provide the best care for her patients.
She also credits her team as essential to her work.
Marjorie, pictured here with pediatric allergist/immunologist Dr. Ravi Karnani, said she values her team in the Allergy department who all help to keep the department running smoothly.
“Without a team environment, the whole department will suffer,” Marjorie said. She speaks highly of her colleagues, including the physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, medical assistants, patient service representatives and non-clerical staff who work tirelessly to keep the department running smoothly.
Marjorie’s previous experience in allergy nursing led her to Akron Children’s, but it’s the welcoming environment that keeps her here. She values working at a Magnet hospital, which she believes makes a noticeable difference in the quality of care and support for nurses.
“The whole environment is very welcoming and empowering to nurses,” she said.
One of Marjorie’s duties is preparing allergy shots for patients.
For those new to Akron Children’s, Marjorie offers advice born from years of experience and a deep understanding of the importance of clear communication in health care.
“Be quick to listen and slow to speak,” she said. “Remember, you speak the language of medicine every day, not everyone else does.
“Seeing patients weekly or monthly allows me to build a working friendship that is invaluable to me,” she added, when reflecting on what makes Akron Children’s more than just a job to her. “It’s these connections that make my work fulfilling and remind me of why I became a nurse in the first place.
Learn about careers at Akron Children’s.
