“In every great team, there’s a leader who sets the tone, and Jim embodies dedication and passion,” said Christopher York, president, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas. “His commitment to patient care, mentorship, and teamwork has made a lasting impact on our hospital and community.”
For 31 years, Jim Rebel, RRT, director, Cardiopulmonary, has been a cornerstone of the respiratory care team at Texas Health Dallas.
Keep reading to find out more about his journey and the passion that keeps him going.
What did you want to be as a kid, and how did you ultimately choose healthcare?
Growing up, I dreamed of being a pilot. However, my path took a different turn when I saw my older sister’s passion for nursing. Her dedication to caring for others was contagious, and it inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare.
Describe your job. What is your workday like?
My day starts early — 6 a.m. — so I can check in with our night-shift team. At 7 a.m., we have a quick huddle to discuss updates and priorities for the day. After that, I spend time catching up on emails and focusing on staffing, which has been a major priority with how busy we’ve been. Since our department leadership recently transitioned, I’ve also been training a new manager and supervisor to ensure they have the tools to succeed in their roles.
What is your favorite part of your job, and what is the biggest challenge?
Without a doubt, my favorite part is the people. I have the best team — from leadership to our staff therapists; they are truly incredible. Many of us have worked together for decades, and they feel like family. I am fortunate to be surrounded by a dedicated group that works together to achieve shared goals and provide excellent patient care.
The biggest challenge right now is staffing. Ensuring we have enough quality therapists to meet the demands of a busy facility is a constant focus, but I know our team is up to the task.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
My journey at Texas Health Dallas isn’t just professional — it’s personal. I met my wife here 29 years ago, and all three of our children were born at the hospital. I also grew up in a small town called Mott, North Dakota, and after serving in the military, I attended North Dakota State University. I’m a die-hard Bison fan!
How do you do your life’s best work at Texas Health?
Texas Health Dallas has been my home for my entire adult life. I have a passion for taking care of people, and it’s been an honor to not only work alongside an amazing team of therapists but also to teach respiratory students from Collin College for the past 21 years. I love sharing my passion with them and watching them grow. I take pride in the work I’ve done, from starting as a therapist to leading the department I began in over 30 years ago. As we move forward, I’m excited to continue reaching new heights with my team, ensuring we provide the best possible care for our patients.
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