Debbie McGrath
COPYWRITER
Biography
"Copy is not written, copy is assembled."
- Eugene Schwratz
DEBBIE MCGRATH, THE PERSON
I grew up in the post-World War II era. This was the time when life was simple. People learned the value of simplicity, and I was no exception.
Growing up on a chicken ranch in a rural area of Los Angeles County, is where I learned my lifelong values of hard work, working together, and enjoying the blessings of living in a close family.
Family vacations were always adventurous. They were usually spent on a campground for about two weeks. Fishing and hiking were our favorite activities. This love of the outdoors has extended to my marriage and raising two children. Even now, my adult children will speak fondly of the time they spent camping at Sequoia National Park.
Other free time activities of mine include reading, playing with my two golden retrievers and enjoying the grandchildren.
Hard work is something that does not intimidate me. While I may be quiet, don’t think of this as a weakness. I listen attentively, think about what is being said, and then am able to come up with a solution. My biggest asset is staying on track until an assignment is completed. I am sure we would enjoy working with one another.
DEBBIE MCGRATH, THE NURSE
When people ask me why I became a nurse, I seem to be caught off guard every time. Although I had been a nurse for 40 years, before retiring, I still pause before answering.
A childhood incident which impacted my decision in becoming a nurse, was contracting the measles. Treatment seemed harsh because I was isolated in a dark room for the duration of my illness as this was the standard of practice at the time.
I think because of this, I became a nurse. Even though this happened several years earlier, it was a natural career choice. Because of this experience, I am more sensitive to other’s emotions. It is easy for me to explain patient procedures, discharge instructions and medical diagnosis to even the most difficult. As I grew in my nursing career, I took all these skills with me. I was able to relate to the pediatric patient, and to the elderly patient who felt they were losing their independence.
Nursing attributes includes being a good listener and able to empathize with others. I am able to use these strengths to my advantage in working on the many specialty units; i.e. intensive care, cardiac care, emergency room and post anesthetic care. At the end of my career, I also spent time in hepatitis C clinics and being the quality control nurse. I certainly had a fulfilling and diverse career.
I am a graduate of California State University, Long Beach obtaining a Bachelor of Science, Nursing degree.
DEBBIE MCGRATH, THE WRITER
I had an interest in writing ever since the eighth grade when I was a reporter for my local 4-H club. It was an experience I have not forgotten. This was the beginning of developing my writing passion.
As part of my nursing career, I had to write and update policies and procedures. Writing reports was part of my role as being head nurse of the recovery room. Some of my duties as being a quality control/risk management nurse, I developed strategies that pertained to outpatient IV therapies.. In my last position, I was instrumental in getting the clinic ready for accreditation which included researching and interpreting the state directives.
To hone in on other writing skills, I have taken courses from American Writers & Artists Institute. I’m an email writing specialist through their program. Other training includes direct response copywriting techniques, and writing for the healthcare market. I have the privilege in working with a leading copywriter, Jay White.
I have written and published a children’s book called Jonah, My Friend.