Quincy Reporter

Blessing Hospital is marking its 150th anniversary in 2025, and as part of the celebration, the organization is highlighting stories from families who have contributed to its long history. One such family is the Sonethongkham family, which has seen five members work in information systems at Blessing Health System over more than three decades.

Ott Sonethongkham began his career at Blessing Hospital in March 1990 after earning degrees in computer science and mathematics. He recalled, “I was lucky enough to get a job offer from Blessing Hospital and I was hired in March 1990 to join four other programmers that supported various systems throughout Blessing Hospital.” After more than 35 years, Ott continues to work as a systems/application analyst IV.

“I’ve never once looked for a new job anywhere else,” he said.

His commitment influenced several relatives to join him at Blessing. Four of his family members—his wife Terri, daughter Angela Roll, nephew Logan Sonethongkham, and cousin Richie Supaswud—also work in IT-related roles at the hospital.

“I am so happy and proud of my family for following in my footsteps to work here at Blessing. Blessing has been good to me for so many years and I will continue to do everything that I can to support and keep the tradition going,” Ott stated.

Terri Sonethongkham, who serves as a systems/application analyst III with over 30 years at Blessing, noted the significance of their shared workplace: “Having so many of our family members working, not just at the same place, but in the same field/area/location is an honor to me. It makes me feel that we’ve set the stage for future generations. And, it’s enjoyable to run into each other for a quick chat.”

Terri’s connection with Blessing began before her marriage; her mother was a nurse there who spoke positively about her employer. Terri said she appreciated both the challenges and flexibility offered by her role: “Blessing presents challenges that are interesting to tackle in the IT world. I love to take on those tasks, and at the same time enjoy the flexibility of my role.”

Angela Roll, PharmD and clinical informatics analyst with five years at Blessing, expressed pride in continuing her parents’ legacy: “I feel proud to be working at the same place my parents have dedicated much of their time and lives to. It is rewarding to not only witness but to also hear testimonies of my parents’ dedication and work ethic. I hope to carry on this reputation during my time here.”

Logan Sonethongkham, associate analytics engineer for three years, remarked on how his relatives’ reputations preceded him: “Growing up, a lot of Blessing people would tell me they worked with my Uncle Ott and Aunt Terri, but I didn’t realize how many people actually worked with them over the years until I started working here. I am very proud that they have given everyone they’ve interacted with a positive first impression of our family, because that has helped me with my first impressions as well.”

Richie Supaswud echoed similar sentiments: “Being part of a family with a strong connection to Blessing means a lot to me. I know I’m on the tail end of my family’s time here, and that makes me want to give my very best and carry on the positive reputation they’ve built. It’s an honor, and I feel a personal responsibility to continue that tradition.”

Family members cited workplace camaraderie as another reason for their long tenures.

Angela highlighted services provided by Blessing: “I enjoy the camaraderie of all Blessing employees. I very much appreciate the Early Learning Center and the quality of care and education provided to my daughter there. Their efforts and communication give me peace of mind that allows me to be fully invested in my patients and tasks while I am at work.”

Logan added: “I am very loyal to my coworkers and boss. They gave me a lot of grace when we had my daughter last year and had to work from Children’s Hospital for seven months.”

Richie noted: “I really like the camaraderie in our department and across the hospital. It’s an easy place to work when everyone’s on the same page. This is also one of the first jobs I’ve had that offers a great work/life balance, which means a lot to me.”

All five currently play roles as analysts supporting different applications during Blessing Health System's transition onto Epic electronic health records (EHR).

“Seeing the teamwork and successes of the various Epic groups is definitely a WOW that I’m proud to be a member of,” Terri said. “Not just me, but each of our family members as well.”

Logan agreed: “I think it is a really cool coincidence that all of our family that currently works at Blessing is all currently on the EPIC build project.”

Angela described her experience: “Switching EHRs (electronic health record) is not a simple process, but being part of a team that is willing to take on the challenge and help better our health system and thus community has been a really gratifying experience.”

Reflecting on his career longevity amid ongoing changes within healthcare technology at both Blessing Hospital Quincy (the main campus) as well as Denman Medical Group facilities nearby (another component), Ott concluded: “When I look back some day, I can say I was part of the history around Blessing and Denman.”