CRNA Week 2026 Spotlight: Madge Moon and Douglas Ombongi

Madge Moon— MSHCA, CRNA, APRN

North Carolina

 

Q: What inspired you to become a CRNA, and what do you love most about the profession?

A: From my undergraduate nursing school days, I was captivated by the person at the head of the OR table operating the anesthesia machine. Later, in the ICU, I admired how CRNAs calmly handled intubations with confidence and skill. That inspiration, paired with my passion for patient care, drove me to become a CRNA. What I find most rewarding are the meaningful interactions with patients and the incredible feeling of seeing a stable patient safely into PACU after a challenging case. My career has also given me amazing international opportunities, from teaching in Finland to volunteering abroad, which have been uniquely fulfilling.

 

Q: What skills or qualities are essential for success as a CRNA?

A: Diligence, vigilance, grace under pressure, critical thinking, effective communication, teamwork, and preparation—always preparation! A forward-thinking mindset and the ability to anticipate challenges are crucial in this high-responsibility role.

 

Q: Can you share a moment in your career that reaffirmed your decision to become a CRNA?

A: At the 2024 Annual Congress in San Diego, a young SRNA approached me and shared that she had shadowed me years ago during a locum assignment and that moment inspired her to pursue CRNA school. Seeing her about to graduate with honors was a moment of immense pride and made my 27-year journey feel incredibly worthwhile.

 

Q: How do you manage stress and maintain balance in such a demanding role?

A: I focus on deep breathing, meditation, and prayer outside of work, and I make sure to take breaks and vacations to avoid burnout. Self-care is essential in a high-responsibility profession like ours.

 

Q: What advice would you give aspiring CRNAs?

A: Be steadfast and embrace the challenges. The journey—from application to clinical rotations to exams—is demanding but incredibly rewarding. Take every opportunity to learn, shadow, and volunteer, and know that perseverance will lead to a successful career in anesthesia.

 

Q: What do you like to do outside of work?

A: I love international travel! Experiencing new cultures, trying foreign cuisines, and meeting people from around the world brings me immense joy. A favorite event I attend annually is a ball in Versailles, France—a truly unforgettable experience!

Douglas Ombongi — CRNA

Pennsylvania

 

Q: What inspired you to become a CRNA, and what do you love most about the profession?

A: From an early age, I was drawn to math, science, and advanced automated technologies. Coupled with a desire to care for people and after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, anesthesiology felt like a natural calling. I love being part of patients’ healing journeys—from neonates to geriatrics, trauma patients, and laboring mothers—sharing both tears and laughter along the way.

 

Q: What skills or qualities are essential for success as a CRNA?

A: Attention to detail, critical thinking, intuition, and strong teamwork are vital. Understanding your role on the team and communicating effectively are key to ensuring safe, high-quality care. 

 

Q: Advice for aspiring CRNAs?

A: CRNA school is demanding, but perseverance pays off. Work hard, stay focused, and embrace the journey—it is incredibly rewarding. Also, don’t forget to take care of yourself, your family, and your community along the way.

 

Q: What do you like to do outside of work?

A: I enjoy running, participating in my children’s activities, and spending quality time with family. These moments keep me grounded and bring balance to my life.