World Health Day Everyday: The Dedication of a Couple Devoted to Healthcare

World Health Day is April 7, but for Evan and Denise Pellecchia, it’s every day. Denise and Evan are both registered nurses who met in 2009 while working in an ambulance as EMTs. Born and raised in San Diego Country Estates, Evan, an emergency nurse, says when the fires came through Ramona in 2007, he decided he wanted to be a firefighter. “I went to EMT school and started working on ambulances. From that point, I decided I wanted to go into nursing school, and I’m glad I did.” From that point, his medical career bloomed.

Denise is a pediatric nurse but initially went to school intending to be a physician. But being only 22 at the time, she says it was difficult to make such a big decision about spending all those years and all that money to do so. “My sister was a nurse, and I loved hearing all of her stories and the things she did. So, I eventually got into the hospital as a healthcare technician.” She decided nursing was the route she wanted to take. She started in the ER and transitioned to pediatrics. “I love it. I’m so glad I made the switch. It's very rewarding working as a team to help these kids get better and see them progress.”

Denise is a source of comfort for her patients during uncertain times, and they express their gratitude in many ways, including through hugs and art. She and Evan love art and have many pieces done by friends and family hanging in their home. “A lot of my patients are teenagers who are very artistic. I’ll show them a photo of our wall of art and ask if they can make us a piece to add to the collection. So, I’ve been given a lot of art from patients I’ve had.” One of her favorite pieces is a painting of butterflies given to her after telling a patient about her daughter’s love for them. Evan adds, “My favorite part of Denise’s job is all the drawings she comes home with.” As for his job, Evan says his favorite part is knowing he makes a difference. “You’re always the most rewarded when you see someone through in a horrific situation. And to know you did everything right to make their situation better.”

With World Health Day approaching, Evan and Denise have advice to help everyone stay healthy. Keeping teenagers and those in their early 20s in mind especially, Denise recommends keeping mental health in check. “You need to make time for self-care and to prioritize yourself. This goes for parents, too.” Evan adds that it’s important to be an advocate for yourself. “Everyone is responsible for their healthcare. You need to treat your health just as you would your finances. Health is extremely important, so be sure to go to the doctor, ask questions and tell people what you need.”

This World Health Day, and every day, heed Denise and Evan’s advice and make your health a priority.