This coming year, we will be highlighting personal stories from our members, celebrating the guidance and support they’ve received from ISCD mentors throughout their journey in the bone health field. ISCD mentors inspire and ensure the next generation grows and thrives in our community. Understanding the importance and impact of these stories, we want to bring them to life. View more stories.
Wendy Tolman-Andrews, BS, RT(BD), CBDT
Bone Densitometry Technologist
UCONN Health Center
Wendy Shares her Story…
Dr. Jo-Anne Smith, the director of my facility’s Clinical Densitometry Service, became my mentor in 2001. She provided me with numerous opportunities for learning, teaching, and delivering excellent patient care. Together, we conducted DXA technologist workshops, educating healthcare professionals on DXA pitfalls and reproducibility. Dr. Smith also collaborated closely with Dr. Lawrence Raisz, a renowned clinician and researcher who mentored her. Dr. Raisz praised my skills and even took a picture with me and our UConn Husky mascot.
In 2005, Dr. Smith and I joined the early version of ISCD’s Facility Accreditation Committee. I remain actively involved with this group and have been invited to volunteer on various ISCD projects. Dr. Smith’s enthusiasm ignited a passion in me. Today, I assist the ISCD’s Marketing, Communications, and Membership Committee in developing patient-oriented resources. I also contribute to lecture repurposing with the Online Learning Development Committee and am privileged to answer GE-Lunar questions on ISCD’s “Ask an Expert” forum.
Bone densitometry eventually became the sole responsibility of the radiology department at my facility, and sadly, both my mentors have passed away. Significant changes made things challenging for a while. However, my positive experiences with Dr. Smith and my continued work with ISCD fostered a deep sense of gratitude. I am especially thankful to Jo-Anne Smith for the many opportunities she provided to help others using my skills and experience. Discovering new clinical cases for teaching remains exciting for me. My mentors and professional society have made my work feel purposeful and engaging, and I am grateful.
Dr. Jo-Anne Smith
(Mentor)
Dr. Lawrence Raisz, UCONN Husky Mascot and Wendy
