Life and Health

By Wade Twilegar, RN, BSN

Recently I was asked to look back at an article featured in GRH's 2014 Community Benefit Report. The article featured me as a brand-new nurse, fresh out of school, starting my career at GRH, which serves the community I had lived in all my life.

What would I say to that version of myself, knowing now the clinical experiences I would have; the lives I would take part in saving; the patients and families that I would help walk through death—and knowing the incredible days of laughter, as well as the tearful embraces, all shared with co-workers that would become more like family than colleagues.

What would the 2014 Wade think if he knew there would be a worldwide pandemic to shake the health care industry to its core and challenge even the most seasoned nurses to leave the industry altogether?
I know that the RN I was 10 years ago could not have handled someone explaining to him everything the next decade would bring. However, that is not how it works, is it? We do not get that information or experience all at once. Life has a way of preparing us for what is to come step-by-step, day by day, patient by patient, year by year.

No one was ready for a pandemic, but I can see how my experience in critical care before the pandemic gave me the necessary tools to navigate such an unforeseen event in world history. Moreover, when I think about everything that has transpired over the last decade, even beyond the pandemic, I know 2014 Wade was not prepared for any of it right out of school—even the good. I was not prepared for the team support and mentorship I received from seasoned staff. I was not prepared for the wonderful opportunities to learn that my teammates at GRH looked to provide for a young nurse like me.

Long before any of the difficulties faced—struggles every nurse faces—there was a family at GRH that showed me I was never alone, never without support; that I was always respected and loved. I would not have chosen GRH if some of that had not been evident during my clinical rotation as a student. Nevertheless, 2014 Wade could not have known the depth of such support until I had the opportunity to work side by side with this team over the next several years.

I have no regrets. I would not want to work in any other profession, at any other hospital or with any group of people other than the team I have had the honor of working with over the last decade. This work family truly cares for the community and for each other. Often you hear about RNs who are "surviving" the tough times, but we have thrived here at GRH because of the character and integrity of the people we work with, day in and day out.

So here is what I would say to 2014 Wade: Great choice! This is going to be the most fulfilling career! You have no idea how remarkable the group of people you work with are. You are going to need them, and they are going to need you, during some difficult seasons. In the end, you will be more proud and so incredibly humbled over the work you have accomplished. I am so proud of you and excited for you! Please remember that you are never alone.

Categories: GRH Nurse Program