This Old Nurse

This old nurse, age 53, graduated yesterday. I have been an LPN for 30 plus years and returned to school 2 years ago to complete my pre-reqs and then entered the LPN-RN bridge program.

I had only worked in a hospital for about 1 year back in 1980, and had retired from office work about 5 years ago. I grew bored at home and decided to return to school and get my RN. It had always been a dream of mine, and I decided to I better do it now or I may never get it done.

It was really hard going, it seemed I worked day and night trying to "catch up" with all the new technology. I took a skills class with students just entering nursing and read everything I could get my hands on. I was tired most of the time, and frustrated a lot, but I never gave up.

I love allnurses.com. I would read postings here that not only helped me with my assignments, but gave me the strength and courage to carry on.

To anyone who thinks they're too old, too tired, or just can't do it ... you can. I'm living proof.

I graduated Valedictorian of the class. Thanks allnurses for the great website, and to everyone whose posts helped me make it through.