The average person works at a job for 4.1 years, but when the stars align you may find yourself with a second home instead of a job.

Sara Edwards, RT(R)(CT), has been a radiologic technologist at IU Health Morgan for 42 years.

“I was born and raised here,” says Edwards. “These are my people and I know everybody that comes in here.”

With a family history of working at the hospital—her grandfather was on the hospital board, and her sisters worked in the laboratory and the cafeteria—she started working weekends at the then Morgan Hospital while attending “X-ray school” at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI).

After graduating first in her class, she walked into a full-time job as a radiologic technologist.

In her role, Edwards is responsible for performing all medical imaging and radiation therapy procedures. And X-rays have a special place in her heart.

“I was always clumsy as a child, and I hurt myself quite a bit,” says Edwards. “I’ve had all kinds of injuries; I’ve had all kinds of X-rays.”

One of those experiences, when she fractured her elbow in junior high, set her on the path to her career.

She remembers a technologist pulling on her injured arm to get an X-ray. The pain was excruciating.

“That person really hurt me, and I thought ‘I could do better than that,'” says Edwards.

Now, Edwards focuses on listening to patients and making them feel comfortable while achieving her ultimate goal—to get a good image.

“A good image means a good diagnosis, and the patient can get the best care,” says Edwards.

With plans to retire in December, Edwards knows the importance of passion for your work and the people you help. It also helps to have a great team that’s like a second family.