The reason I went into nursing.... long

[Yellow Rose RN]

I think, that this weekend I have realized, with total certainty why I went into nursing. My neighbor had a little boy 3 1/2 years ago. He was born with a genetic disorder called Trisomy 10. He has been sick since birth and has many birth defects and associated muscle and bone disorders. He was born with one kidney and the Dr.'s said that he would not make it to his 3rd birthday. I have been the one that my neighbor/good friend calls upon to keep him when they need time out or to run errands etc. I have spent many evenings, days and a few nighttimes with this baby and have come to love him dearly. This past week, this sweet baby really took a turn for the worse. His Dr.'s said that there was nothing else that they could do for him and sent him home with his parents. It has been a rough week but my freind has leaned on me in so many ways. I have sat with her and her family listening and just being there for them. I have rocked this baby when everyone else was exhausted and he was uncomfortable. I have helped to explain what the Dr.'s have told them and Hospice as well. The family asked over and over for hospice to let them know what to expect next and what signs to look for when the time came closer. I am not sure why, but their hospice nurse was not there for them and didn't answer any questions that they had. I helped them understand what signs to look for and when the baby entered the last stages of his life, I explained why his respirations were irregular. When the baby finally passed yesterday morning, I comforted the family. Many family members have brought me cards explaining their gratefulness in my willingness to teach them and be there in a nursing capacity when they didn't have anyone else step into that role. I just wanted to let my friends on this board know that I love nursing and everything that goes with it. I admire all of my fellow nurses here and realize today, why I went into this honored profession. Thank you for reading this far.

Hugs to all of you nurses!

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

You are such a special and caring person - thanks for sharing this beautiful story!

[Yellow Rose RN]

Thank you so much to eveyone who replied to my post. It truly is a special feeling to have so many professionals say such kind words. Yesterday was this precious angel's funeral. It was sad, but beautiful all the same. The music was so appropriate and they had a nice slide show with favorite moments with their little one. I will remember this experience for the rest of my life and I have been touched forever by this sweet little boy. Thanks again for the kind words...