05/12/2026
Trisha Evans, Director of Surgical Services, understands all too well what it’s like to be on the receiving end of nursing care. Diagnosed with kidney disease at the age of 11 and later watching family members battle cancer, those experiences shaped her desire to become a nurse and fueled her passion for helping others. This May, Trisha celebrates 30 years in nursing, marked by compassion and dedication to patient care. She began on the med-surg unit at Hannibal Regional, where she discovered her passion for surgery, later serving as a circulator and unit team leader in the operating room.
“Surgery is just cool and interesting. It’s incredible to see how things can be fixed through surgery,” Trisha shared. “I love helping surgery patients, supporting them as they heal, and watching them overcome the struggles they’re facing. It’s a very rewarding unit to work in.” After exploring a beloved role in health coaching, Trisha ultimately returned to her roots in surgery and today serves as Director of Surgical Services at Hannibal Regional.
Hannibal Regional has become a second home to Trisha. The small-town feel, paired with state-of-the-art technology, allows her team to provide exceptional surgical care while building meaningful connections with patients. “I grew up here and love seeing patients and team members I know. I’ve never had a desire to work somewhere bigger. I’m able to build strong connections with patients and their families right here. With the advanced technology we have, patients are able to receive advanced care close to home instead of traveling to a larger facility. At Hannibal Regional, we have the opportunity to provide the best care while getting to know people on a personal level.”
Nursing has allowed Trisha to discover her passion for caring for others through surgery, while also opening the door to many opportunities. “My advice to nurses is to find what you’re passionate about,” Trisha shares. “There are so many specialties, and you can grow your skill set in areas at the bedside as well as in education, leadership, quality, informatics, and more. The opportunities in nursing are endless.”
If you are interested in making a difference and finding your true passion as a nurse with Hannibal Regional, contact Nurse Recruiter Amy Lakenburger at 573-629-3593 or visit jobs.hannibalregional.org.
