Christine (Chrissy) Gromley, CVT, serves as an ER/ICU Supervisor here at VHA, where her passion for learning, leadership, and patient care come together in a fast-paced and highly collaborative environment. Her journey into veterinary medicine was anything but traditional. Chrissy initially attended Virginia Tech to pursue mechanical engineering, but quickly realized that a desk job was not where she felt most fulfilled. Her love for animals, especially dogs, led her to take a position in boarding at a veterinary clinic, which ultimately opened the door to a career she truly connected with.
After moving to Florida, Chrissy continued working in boarding at a clinic where she was introduced to the medical side of veterinary care. As she took on more responsibilities and trained as a veterinary assistant, she discovered a deep interest in medicine and patient care. She went on to work as a veterinary technician in general practice at several clinics, where her passion for growth and education continued to evolve. Determined to elevate her skills, she pursued and earned her Certified Veterinary Technician credential.
Chrissy joined VHA’s ICU team while completing school full time, initially drawn by the overnight schedule. What she did not expect was how quickly she would fall in love with emergency and critical care medicine. “ICU and ER became home for me,” she shares. Since then, she has continued to grow within the hospital, learning from her colleagues and stepping into a leadership role driven by her desire to support others and give back. Her passion for learning and her commitment to helping others grow made her a natural fit for the ER/ICU Supervisor position.
The most rewarding part of her work is seeing critically ill patients recover and return home healthy, happy, and healed. These moments continue to reinforce her purpose and dedication to the field.
At home, Chrissy shares her life with a full and loving crew, including three dogs: Maia, a pitbull, rottweiler, and german shepherd mix she describes as the sweetest princess; Jameson, her gentle giant Irish Wolfhound; and Charlie, a Cavachon. She also has a rabbit affectionately known as Miss Buns. Outside of work, Chrissy and her husband enjoy traveling and have explored destinations such as Italy and Australia, with Ireland next on their list. She also embraces her inner “science nerd” and keeps lab equipment at home, including a microscope and centrifuge.
Working in ER and ICU can be emotionally demanding, and Chrissy prioritizes time to decompress and reflect after challenging shifts. Whether it is relaxing in her hot tub or mentally processing the day, she understands the importance of caring for herself so she can continue showing up fully for her patients and team. She values the environment here at VHA that supports growth, learning, and teamwork at every level.
To err is human, to forgive is canine.
