Medical Assistants Are Inspirations!
July/August 2025
A Light in the Dark: CMA (AAMA) Supports Oncology Patients
In the spotlight: After taking a job at an oncology clinic, Grace Barnes Chavous has worked in the infusion suite and on the practice side of the clinic. With a positive attitude and lots of compassion, Barnes Chavous offers comfort to patients during difficult times and develops lasting connections.
"It’s so rewarding to see [patients] finish their chemo or when they come back for a follow-up and they’re cancer-free. It reminds me that my purpose is to come to work every day and help patients during this difficult time."
Grace Barnes Chavous, CMA (AAMA)
Medical assistant at an oncology clinic
"It's never too late to pursue your dream. I know my mom would be so happy that I'm living it now."
Name: Mindy Stark, CMA (AAMA)
Occupation: Medical assistant at an HIV and hepatitis C clinic
May/June 2025
What's Lost and Found: Personal Loss Inspires Professional Gain for CMA (AAMA)
In the spotlight: Inspired by their shared interest in medicine, Mindy Stark was able to become a medical assistant with some help from her mom. After gaining experience in various specialties, Stark embraces on-the-job learning, as well as supports—and builds trusting relationships with—patients at an HIV and hepatitis C clinic.
March/April 2025
Put at Ease: CMA (AAMA) Provides Comforting Care for Patients with Chronic Pain
In the spotlight: With personal experience related to post-surgical pain, Amybeth Box supports patients who have chronic pain with empathy and understanding. In addition to educating patients and assisting with their visits, she offers a listening ear. Box finds satisfaction in having a well-rounded background in various specialties and enjoys seeing patients find pain relief through treatment.
"There are days that are tough, when patients are really struggling, but I take pride in showing them compassion and making them feel better."
Name: Amybeth Box, CMA (AAMA)
Occupation: Pain management medical assistant in the San Diego area
"My CMA (AAMA) [certification] took me further than I ever expected and allowed me to stand out and accomplish so much."
Anita Figueroa, CMA (AAMA)
Medical assistant at a senior independent living facility in Lincolnshire, Illinois
January/February 2025
Frequently Asked Questions: CMA (AAMA) Known for Answering Patient Calls for Help
November/December 2024
A Home Run: CMA (AAMA) Steps Up to the Plate in Sports Medicine
In the spotlight: After retiring from the U.S. Air Force with 23 years of service, Mike Radke, CMA (AAMA), found himself experiencing an adjustment period. After some self-reflection, he felt a calling to obtain medical assisting skills.
In 2017, at 47 years old, Radke received an associate of occupational studies degree in medical assisting. For the next three years, he worked as a medical assisting educator in a neurology clinic and for Cancer Treatment Centers of America until it closed its Tulsa, Oklahoma, location.
“As a combat veteran, I’ve had many bone and joint injuries and three concussions, with one classified as a traumatic brain injury,” he says. “When I initially see patients [with concussion], I know exactly what they’re going through, and it’s rewarding to support them.”
Mike Radke, CMA (AAMA), Medical assistant, Center for Exercise and Sports Medicine, Oklahoma University Health Physicians
“I feel as [if] I have found my niche in life and work and am where I am meant to be."
Fayth McKinney, CMA (AAMA)
Medical assistant in a women’s health clinic
September/October 2024
Lifelong Learning: CMA (AAMA) Relishes a Career that Keeps Teaching More Skills
Photos and other AAMA images may not be used without express permission from the AAMA. Legal action will be taken against violators. Requests for the use of photos and images may be directed to the AAMA Marketing and Communications Department at the following email address: MarCom@aama-ntl.org.