My father lay dying. My emotions were an overflowing amalgamation of feelings. One thing I knew for sure - hospice and more specifically, the hospice nurse was the prime target of all of those negative emotions. How could she? Fast forward to about 6 years later. Real estate was my chosen field. But, I felt unfulfilled. My daily routine was just a well choreographed dance that I had come to dread. There had to be more than signing leases and calling the late payers. The years had allowed copious reflection. That hospice nurse- she had such an amazing role. She was caregiver, practitioner, confidant, guide and mood lightener. It was as if the clouds parted and was able to see the bright answer. I wanted to become a registered nurse. Never having done anything in the medical field, my family and friends were curiously surprised at this news. But, that didn’t deter me. Little did I know that the universe had other plans. “I am so sorry, Helen” The doctor said quietly. “It is cancer.” That was not the news that I had anticipated hearing two weeks before classes were due to start. The next few moments were a blur of surgery discussions and plans for radiation. But, my heart was broken because I knew I wouldn’t be able to begin classes. The next day, my plan was to hold it together and not cry as the phone dialed The Western PA Hospital School of Nursing. The kind counselor assured that my seat would be secure in the next year’s cohort. Classes only began once a year. I would have to wait and recuperate. That year did nothing but make me more determined to pursue my nursing dream. During this time, I took courses at the local community college so that all that would be needed were my nursing courses. School began in August of 2008 and I have never regretted my decision. Please don’t misunderstand, there have been some incredibly difficult moments. There have also been moments more powerful than words. My first RN role was as a med/surg nurse on a very busy floor. This was in an era prior to nursing residencies and electronic charting. It was sink or swim nursing as often on night turn, we would have 9 patients and this still green nurse would have to be in charge. But, I worked with some amazing folks that educated and guided me and will be forever grateful to them. Over the next few years, I obtained my BSN, with a 3.9 gpa. Changed roles every few years : Stepdown to ICU to PACU. My commitment to being as knowledgeable was evident in the certifications, which were obtained for each specialty. While working in PACU, a dear friend called and was trying to convince me that I would make a great hospice nurse. My initial reaction was negative, but, like a tiny seed, the thought grew. I cancelled my first 2 interviews with hospice. But, it still nagged at me. During the final interview, I just knew this is where I needed to be and still am 7 years later. Hospice isn’t an easy role but, it is immensely rewarding. All of the awards and accolades received pale in comparison to the thankful eyes of a family member or the peaceful death of a patient. My role is to guide and educated along this difficult journey. I am right where I need and want to be. As an DNP, my plan is to stay with hospice because my heart remains here.