I never had an epic story for why I chose to be a nurse. I just wanted to be able to care for people and help others to get better and healthy. I remember sitting in my fundamentals class on the first day of nursing school, listening to every one of my classmates describe their incredible stories of why they wanted to pursue nursing. And I felt like a complete failure when it was finally my turn and I didn’t have anything powerful or earth-shattering to share.
I have always said that nursing, especially NICU nursing, chose me. God decided that I was made of all the things that nurses were made of and that my path in life would be to serve an incredibly vulnerable population that many were afraid of.
It was during my final year of nursing school when I confidently, passionately, undeniably, without a doubt or ANY ounce of uncertainty in my mind knew that NICU nursing was what I was made to do. Something deep within my heart and soul was unveiled, and that—my friends—was the confidence and ability to care for the most fragile, tiniest and sickest humans alive.
Nurses Week 2020 is very different than we could have ever predicted. This year has been affectionately dubbed “Year of the Nurse,” yet I don’t think any of us had a pandemic in mind as confirmation to our profession.
To all the nurses & future nurses out there, regardless of your story (or lack thereof), just know that to me, you make a difference! Thank you for your compassion, empathy, and selfless work. You are not only one of the most important vocations, but one of the most trusted by your patients. You are the backbone of healthcare, although some days it may seem like you are undervalued or unappreciated. Thank you for making a lifesaving difference everyday. You are true heroes!