10 Questions with Christine Gould
During Lung Cancer Awareness month, we caught up with the Lung Cancer Screening Program Coordinator to learn more about her healthcare career journey, her daily role at Cape Cod Hospital and some of her proudest moments over the past year.
For Christine Gould, third time’s not only a charm—but it’s also a game-changer both personally and professionally.
Nearly a year ago, she gave up smoking after trying to quit two previous times. “It’s been a struggle, but I was inspired to quit because of my grandson, who is 3½, and I wanted to set a good example for the patients who walk through our doors.”
As the Lung Cancer Screening Program Coordinator in the Radiology Department at Cape Cod Hospital, Christine says sharing her personal experiences, struggles and success stories with patients help them feel more at ease and relaxed. “I was just talking to one of our patients who recently quit smoking as well,” says Christine, who kicked the habit after 40 years. “Usually people are tense and scared coming into a hospital setting. I like to greet them with a smile and friendly presence—and make them feel at home.”
In her role, Christine works directly with radiologist Alex Adduci, MD, and the radiology staff at Cape Cod Hospital to coordinate appointments and review screenings. She also sends letters to patients with their results and mails follow-up reminders for their next screenings. For abnormal results, she works in conjunction with oncology nurse navigator Joan Macallister, general and thoracic surgeon Jeffrey Spillane, MD, and interventional pulmonologist Michael Ayers, MD, on the next phase for patients.
Since stepping into this role several years ago, Christine says she is most proud of getting the program nationally accredited and designated a Screening Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology and the GO2 Foundation. Although lung cancer is the third most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., “it’s very treatable if you catch it in time,” says Christine.
We recently stopped by Christine’s office to learn more about her healthcare journey, the best part about her day, her hidden passion and what she’s most excited about in the new year.
1. Did you grow up on the Cape?
No, I’m originally from New Jersey. But I’ve spent summers in Harwich since I was 3. When my parents got divorced when I was 12, my siblings and I moved here with Mom full-time. I went to Harwich High School and then continued my education at Endicott College in Beverly.
2. What brought you to Cape Cod Healthcare?
After earning my associate degree in science, I really didn’t know what I wanted to do. I ended up working as a reservation manager at a local hotel and then as a broker for a barter company. My best friend worked in the medical field and encouraged me to start working in healthcare. I was fortunate to land a job at Cape Cod Ear, Nose and Throat where I worked in a variety of roles, from front desk to surgical coordinator—and even cleaned the office at night. But after 21 years there, I decided it was time for a change. When this job became available, I applied and have been here since 2019.
3. Best way to start your day?
Finding a good parking spot. It just makes your day! [laughs]. My coworkers and I call it our princess spots. When I go to lunch with a colleague, I’ll say “I found a princess spot!” It sets the tone for the day.
4. Mantra or phrase you live by?
I always say “sugar plum fairies.” “Oh, sugar plums” or “sugar plum fairies” instead of swearing. I try to watch my mouth around my grandson. It also makes people smile.
5. Best advice from a family member, friend or coworker?
My dad used to tell me, when you are driving, always look for a way out. Never drive in the middle lane on the highway. And my old boss gave me great advice and I’ve drilled it into my kids’ heads—don’t discuss your salary with anyone.
6. What would you like to accomplish before the end of the year?
I would love to purge my house – clean out the basement, the garage, the attic.
7. What would a perfect day off look like for you?
Sleeping past 6 a.m., getting a nice big cup of tea, and spend it with my grandson, Jaxson. He loves to hang out with Gammy. He always says, “I love going to Gammy’s house.”
8. When was your last moment of self-care?
I had a 90-minute massage last weekend. It was fabulous. My daughter and I have memberships at Massage Envy, so I try to alternate—I’ll do a massage one month and a facial the next month.
9. Anything on the horizon you are most excited about?
The arrival of my new baby granddaughter, due Feb. 15.
10. A hidden passion?
Party planning. Our Christmas party is going to be at Ten Pin Eatery, and I am helping to plan this event. We also had a summer party at Barnstable Brewing and I helped coordinate the party platters. For Rad Tech week earlier this month, I planned an event for each day of the week, including a food drive (everyone who brought in an item was entered to win a prize), an ice cream day, an outing to Olive Garden, a pizza party and fun activities like word searches and guess how much candy is in the jar.
