So this is how my road to nursing unfolded.
After graduating college I went on to become a television reporter. I enjoyed working and taking on unexpected events where quick critical thinking was needed. It was during this chapter of my life that I learned even more about myself. In my news career, if I am truthful, I wanted to “help and aid” not tell the story. I wanted to care for the victim of an accident or shooting until medics arrived on the scene; however, in accordance with my job title and description, I was there to report. I will never forgot my experiences with injury and, sometimes, even death, and how I felt my purpose was really to have been the nurse rather than the reporter. Those were the quiet moments of my calling.
I eventually left news and focused on lighter television work such as commercials and night time dramas playing small roles until I met my husband. It was at this time that I felt it was time to create and grow my own family. However, being a full time “around the clock mother” could not satisfy all aspects of who I am. I came to realize that, for my personal growth, I needed to have my individual sense of purpose and have a profession in which I respected and admired. I had to change my course and accept my calling. Can I say, there was no knock at my door but more like bells ringing wildly! I heard the calling this time and could not ignore its loud tug on my heart. I was now on the journey to becoming a nurse. I began this new career path three months after my second baby was born. And I will admit that it wasn’t easy. Sometimes I felt very guilty; however, I knew this short-term commitment would lend to a long life of feeling fulfilled. I also knew this career choice would allow me to set an example for my children. I hope they not only see a nurse who cares for and nurtures others but that they see their mother as an educator and advocator for better healthcare among the community. When I was awarded the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation scholarship, might I add, I am still in a state of glee, I knew it was one more sign that this was definitely the right choice for me. Yet, I do believe in order to fulfill this role as a nurse I must not forget the Florence Nightingale pledge “to devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care”. Ideally, I believe this about nursing…to always listen to your heart, it serves you best and to give back to your community wholeheartedly remembering your community is essentially your family.
