Carilion Proud Q&A: Get to Know Ottillia Lewis

Meet Ottillia Lewis, Trauma Outreach Coordinator and Trauma Survivors Network Coordinator

How long have you worked at Carilion?

I joined Carilion in 2015 and have served in several roles including nurse extern, staff nurse, charge nurse and preceptor. Most of my experience has been on 9 Mountain Neurotrauma ICU/PCU at CRMH.

How does your job contribute to patient care and Carilion’s mission?

As Trauma Outreach Coordinator, I help advance Carilion’s mission by educating our communities, partners, facilities and EMS agencies on safety and prevention. These efforts support a healthier, safer future for those we serve. In my role as Trauma Survivors Network (TSN) Coordinator, I support patients beyond discharge by connecting them with peer volunteers and providing opportunities for follow-up and reunion events. Trauma recovery continues long after a hospital stay, and this program reinforces Carilion’s values of commitment and compassion by walking with patients and families as they adjust to a new normal.

What is your favorite thing about working here?

I love serving my community close to home and being present for neighbors and friends on what may be their most difficult day.

Describe a typical day in your job.

It varies. On outreach or education days, I may be in the community teaching at hospitals, EMS agencies or schools on trauma and injury prevention topics. On other days at CRMH, I update education materials based on injury statistics, track trauma triage data, provide EMS feedback, assist with data abstraction and help facilitate peer support for trauma patients.

How are you involved in your community outside of work?

I participate in Bible ministry work and also provide peer support for NICU families as they navigate their journey with our tiniest patients.

What’s one thing that would surprise people about you?

I’m a big “nerd” at heart. I love science fiction, fantasy novels and movies. When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me reading—though my toddler is often trying to steal the book from me!

Tell us about your best day at work.

One memory that stands out is of a Marine injured in a bicycle crash who sustained multiple fractures and paralysis. Before leaving for spinal rehab, he was able to walk down the hallway with assistance from a gait trainer. His mom cried, his fellow Marines cried, and so did we. Months later, he walked back into the hospital without any assistive devices. I’ve also seen young trauma patients with devastating brain injuries beat the odds—later walking across the stage at their graduations. These moments remind me why I do this work.

Name someone at Carilion who has inspired you.

I’ve had many mentors, but two who stand out are former Trauma Program Manager Andi Wright and Trauma CNS Jennifer Bath. They recognized my passion for trauma patients and education, encouraged me to pursue specialty certification and helped me grow into the educator I am today.

What advice do you have for a new employee?

Find what you love to do and stick with it. Carilion offers so many opportunities and specialties—you’ll find your place here. When you do, treasure the team that helps you grow and never take that support for granted.