Nursing & My Reward
Becoming a nurse was one of the biggest achievements of my life. I was so pleased to have a career, to be the first in my family to finish college and to really be doing something that I had a passion for. Becoming an Oncology (Cancer) nurse was something that just seemed natural for me. I haven’t looked back since. I knew that as an Oncology nurse I would face some very sad and difficult situations but as I look back on my last three years I see a different picture than I had anticipated. I have been able to meet some of the most incredible patients and families.
Meeting patients and their families when they are most likely at one of the lowest points of their life is a very interesting feeling. First, you realize this could be your loved one so you treat them like they are. Second you are humbled by the pain, nausea and all the other things that come with cancer and realize this could be you so you treat them with the golden rule. Last you reach out to offer what you can but you realize what you gain from their attitudes and strength is so much more than you even have to give.
I went into nursing thinking I was going to be able to offer help to others but I have found over the years the reward is truly mine. I am there when a family is losing a loved one, when patient is diagnosed with cancer and when a patient gets good news. I have to say I am humbled daily by the pain my patients feel, the tears they cry, the laughs they share, the sadness, depression, despair, hope that they experience. And to the families that watch your loved ones suffer your tears and pain do not go unseen either. I am with you and will offer what I can.
One of the reasons I even considered going on this Race is because of my patients. I have had several that have touched my heart and have encouraged me to reach for the stars reminding me we don’t know what tomorrow holds. I wish I could acknowledge them by name but God knows them and I ask for special blessings on them or on their families to those I have lost. I am challenged continuously on how to be a better nurse and how I can meet my patient’s needs. In the end I believe I walk away with so much more. I say this to my patients and their families, I have seen your pain and I hold it in my heart and I know one day you will be released from your suffering.
Thank you to my patients and their families
But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Malachi 4:2
‘Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security Jeremiah 33:6
