Nursing Profiles

Susan C.

Salinas, CA
Nurse Aide

My name is Susan, and I’ve been a nurse aide for 22 years. I got into this field after taking care of my sister, Phyllis, who was stricken with MS. Toward the end of her life, the visiting nurses taught me how to perform complicated but necessary procedures when they weren’t there. I tried to put myself in Phyllis’s place and give her my best care. She passed away in 1979. After this experience, I knew I would be good at caring for others. I started out working in a convalescent home, and stayed there for four years. Then I applied to an acute care hospital, where I currently work and plan to until I retire. Right now, I work the night shift on the cancer ward. I love the fact that every night is a challenge. You never know what to expect when you walk into a patient’s room. I do know that whatever I encounter, I will do my best to help that patient feel better for being there. You not only deal with the ups and downs of the patient, but also with those of his or her family—I have laughed and cried with countless patients and families. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you have made a difference in someone else's life just by being there for them.