“I’m a Custodian” is a Mayo Clinic Press children’s book that follows the custodial workers who play a vital role in keeping hospitals safe and healthy. Through colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, children will discover the importance of cleanliness, hygiene and teamwork in maintaining wellness. “I’m a Custodian” is part of the “Health Heroes” series that gets kids ready to be inspired by the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to protect wellbeing.
This book is inspired by Mayo Clinic environmental services technician Liah M. Olsen, who details her experience below.
What do enjoy most about your role?
What I do does makes a difference and impacts others. It also gives them peace of mind when they see me going around and cleaning elevator buttons and stair railings, so they know the little things are getting done and are not overlooked.
What is your personal mission in the health community?
My personal mission is to help stop the spread of germs and to break the chain of transmission.
What’s one story from your job that you will never forget?
I must say that my position is not always the greatest; I have had a few gross things I have had to clean up in my day. But all in all, I don’t mind any of it since I am here to try to make the patients’ hospital stays as smooth and clean as possible. I also make sure to let patients know not to be sorry; our bodies do strange things when we are not feeling well. And cleaning up a mess should always be the least of their concerns.
When young readers read the Health Heroes books, what do you hope readers learn or walk away with?
That all jobs, no matter how big or small, all matter and make a difference.
Relevant reading
Back and Neck Health
Back and neck pain are common complaints. When you think of all of the work that your back and neck do each day — constantly moving, bending and twisting as you go about your day-to-day activities — it’s not surprising that problems develop. But just as doing too much can…
Want more children’s health and parenting information? Sign up for free to our email list.
Subscribe Open parent optin subscribe modal
