20 Jan, 2020

Meet Elodie

Elodie Takamiya

French Interpreter and Communications Specialist

Elodie is a French Interpreter and a Communications Specialist at Lifeline Pregnancy Help Clinic in Kirksville. Since Pure Freedom is part of Lifeline, she will be writing new blog posts for Pure Freedom as well. After being born in Ukraine, Elodie lived most of her life in France until recently, when she moved to the United States to live with her kindhearted husband, Patrick. She completed a master’s degree in International Communications at the University of Lyon 3 in France, and she worked for a couple of news media outlets before landing at Lifeline.

Why did you decide to work for Lifeline?

I was looking for a way to help my community and make a difference in people’s lives. Lifeline provided just that. 

What do you like about your job?

I love the fact that my job encompasses so many of my interests at once. At Lifeline, I get to interact with French-speaking clients, interpret for them and help them at each stage of their pregnancy. I know it isn’t easy to arrive in a new country (especially when alone and pregnant, I imagine!), so I try to make their transition as smooth as possible. I’ve always been passionate about writing and even considered becoming a journalist several years ago. Because of that, I really enjoy doing research and writing blog posts on a regular basis. 

Tell us about your family!

My parents and twin brother still live in France. We grew up being very close because it was mostly just the four of us. My mom is the definition of generosity and hard work while my dad is a great person to talk to and debate on any subject. My brother is an extremely talented tattoo artist who follows me everywhere with a needle. I am very proud of him and of his accomplishments. Besides them, I now have my wonderful in-laws, with whom I’ve always gotten along perfectly well. They are my friends first and foremost, and I am very thankful for that!

What are your hobbies?

Reading is one of my favorite activities. I started reading fiction in my childhood and got hooked by non-fiction a few years ago. I am also a dog person and I enjoy walking my dog and playing ball with her. Graphic design while listening to music helps me relax and leave the world behind me.

What are your goals?

My ambition is to have a positive impact on our society when it comes to love, relationships, and sex through my research and writings. I want to encourage everyone to make healthy life choices that will benefit them in the future because that is so very important!