Compassionate Healthcare Center Nurse Recognized for Excellence
March 31, 2026, MORRIS, IL – For Jennifer Blazevicz, a career in healthcare is more than a passion. It is a calling. From a young age, Blazevicz spent time traveling with her mother, who worked as an emergency department nurse and later in home healthcare. Blazevicz says the passion she witnessed firsthand through her mother inspired her to pursue a career helping others as a licensed practical nurse. Thankfully for patients in Braidwood, Dwight, and Gardner Healthcare Centers, Blazevicz has been providing excellent care for more than 15 years. In recognition of her many contributions to Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers, Blazevicz has been named the February Fire Starter of the Month. This is the second time she has been honored with this esteemed award.
Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers Practice Manager Kylie Gabehart says Blazevicz is a staple within the Healthcare Centers and consistently goes above and beyond to help anyone in need.
“Jennifer is an incredible employee and team player,” says Gabehart. “Her compassion and willingness to go above and beyond helps not only the staff she works with, but also our patients. She is an excellent communicator, and when she works with our behavioral health patients, she always speaks with understanding and kindness.”
Blazevicz journey to becoming a nurse began early, while she was a student at Queen of Peace High School in Burbank, IL. As part of her graduation service hour requirements, Blazevicz volunteered at Misericordia Home on the south side of Chicago, a home for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It was there that she spent time getting to know the patients and began developing a deep love for helping others.
After having her daughter at a young age and working as a bus driver for over 12 years, Blazevicz decided it was time to return to school and pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse.
“I went back to school in my 30s, which was a challenge, but I always knew I wanted to be a nurse, so I kept at it and became an LPN,” says Blazevicz. “I have always enjoyed taking care of people, and now I get to do what I am passionate about every day.”
Blazevicz love of learning continues today through her work alongside Dr. Jennifer Thomas and advanced practice registered nurse Kathy Ulivi, who regularly share their expertise and knowledge with her.
“I am so lucky to work with excellent providers like Dr. Thomas and Kathy Ulivi,” says Blazevicz. “Working with both of them has taught me so much, and I love that they are always willing to answer questions. It makes the care we provide our patients even better because we are all working together.”
In nominating Blazevicz for Fire Starter of the Month, Clinic RN Kristine Cumba-Martinez praised Blazevicz support and willingness to help as she transitioned into her role as a new clinic nurse.
“Jennifer goes above and beyond for our patients, and she is always giving 100 percent to help them as much as she possibly can,” says Cumba-Martinez. “She has inspired me as a new clinic nurse to do the same and to always advocate for my patients.”
As a two-time Fire Starter, Blazevicz says she is grateful to receive the award again. She credits the incredible team she works with in helping her provide patients with excellent care.
In early civilizations, fire starters were individuals who had the important job of keeping the flame alive. With over 1,500 employees, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is the largest employer in Grundy County.
