Marta Hayne

Hometown: Charleston, West Virginia

Education: Dr. Hayne is a graduate of Transylvania University and the West Virginia University School of Medicine.

Community Support: Dr. Hayne has served with the Lexington-Fayette County Board of Health, the Lexington Ballet Board, the American Cancer Society, the Transylvania University Alumni Executive Board, Ironcology, LexArts, the Mayor's Task Force for Colorectal Cancer, and Habitat for Humanity.

Occupation: Dr. Hayne serves as a Radiation Oncology physician.

Family: Dr. Hayne is with her partner, Thomas Howell, and has three children and six grandchildren.

Why do you volunteer in the community? Volunteering has been a good way to gain experience in new areas and get outside of my comfort zone. Volunteering provides opportunities to meet new people and build relationships with people who have similar interests, and it's a way to support important causes and contribute to the greater good.

What is the role that healthcare has played in your life or the lives of your family, friends or neighbors? Healthcare has played a significant role in my life. My father was a physician and I followed in his footsteps becoming a physician. He instilled in me values of compassion, empathy and a desire to serve others. Healthcare has provided me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It is a collaborative field and I have developed strong relationships with colleagues and other healthcare professionals who have played a significant role in my life. Healthcare has helped shape my life both professionally and personally.

How can gratitude help heal you spiritually, physically and emotionally? Gratitude helps us connect to something bigger than ourselves. It reminds us of the beauty of the world so that we feel a sense of awe and reverence for nature. It provides a sense of comfort and peace. Gratitude reduces stress and can improve sleep. Our bodies release hormones like oxytocin and serotonin when we feel grateful. These hormones help us feel more relaxed and content. When we focus on the good things in our lives, we feel more positive and optimistic, even in tough times.