For Jacoby Freeman, phlebotomist, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, starting a career in health care wasn’t just a career shift, it was a turning point that changed his life, empowered his purpose, and brought him closer to being the father he’s always wanted to be. Originally working as a line cook in Magee’s cafeteria, Jacoby had long been curious about a role in health care that would allow him to deliver life-changing care to patients.
Jacoby Freeman, phlebotomist, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital
“It was something I always had an interest in,” he said. “My aunt and cousin started in phlebotomy before becoming nurses, and their stories stuck with me. When I had the chance to talk to Amy about it, I knew I had to try.”
Amy Cooney, supervisor, Phlebotomy, UPMC Magee, first heard about Jacoby through his cafeteria supervisor. “He told me Jacoby wanted to move into a more clinical role,” Amy recalled. “I said absolutely, bring him in for a job shadow.”
During their first conversation, Jacoby shared that his motivation came from wanting more for his young son. Jacoby is originally from Peoria, Illinois, and his son is the only blood relative he has here in Pittsburgh. “I get emotional just talking about him,” he said. “I want him to see that good people can do great things and no matter where you start, you can change your path.” “As a mom and grandma, that hit my heart,” Amy said. “I could feel how sincere he was about doing better not only for himself, but especially for his child. That struck a chord with me.”
Jacoby approached the new role with determination, humility, and an open mind, understanding there was much to learn in this clinical setting. “I didn’t know anything about drawing blood,” he said. “But Amy and the whole lab team supported me. They were patient, encouraging, and made me feel like I belonged.”
At Magee, the outpatient lab sees 100 to 150 patients a day, including newborns, seniors, and pregnant patients. Each population has unique challenges associated with phlebotomy. “Jacoby had to learn every patient population — and he did it quickly,” said Courtney Weir, manager, Phlebotomy Services, UPMC Presbyterian, who also oversees Amy Cooney and the team at Magee. “What takes some people years, he picked up in months.”
Like many newcomers, Jacoby had doubts in the beginning. “I was nervous,” he said. “I didn’t want to hurt anyone or mess up. But every day, I got more comfortable. Now, I can step into any situation.” His growth hasn’t gone unnoticed. “Jacoby is a natural,” Amy said. “He’s gone from mentee to mentor in less than a year. He was meant to do this.”
Today, Jacoby is thriving — personally and professionally. Thanks to Amy’s encouragement, he’s enrolled at Capella University, studying Human Resource Management, with an eye on HR or even nursing in the future.
“I just want to keep growing,” he said. “I want to be the person people can count on — at work and in life.” More than anything, Jacoby’s proud of the example he’s setting for his son.“This opportunity changed my life,” he said. “I’m thankful Amy believed in me. I’m doing this for my son — and I’m proud of who I’m becoming.”
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