Open letter to my former oncology patients

Published Sep 30, 2012

52 Posts

Specializes in Oncology, Hospice, Med-Surg.

As I go into pallative care/hospice nursing after working fresh out of college as an oncology nurse for 2.5 years, I feel compelled to write a "letter" to my former oncology patients. You all were some of the best patients I ever had. You showed me what is important in life. I watched you suffer through rounds of chemo and their side effects. I watched you bravely take this on with almost no complaining and with true strength. As I administered all your blood products, electrolytes, chemo and worried tirelessly that you'd see a cure, I discovered my talent for talking to you and your families when the chemo didn't work and making you comfortable. I'll be here still rooting for your cure, but I'll still be here if there isn't one. I'll be supporting you and your family as you make some of the hardest decisions you'll ever make. I'll respect you and your decisions and give you dignity. Most importantly, I'll never forget you. Thanks for the last 2.5 years!