It’s honestly hard to just write about one. I’m in tears as I think about the patients I’ve had the privilege to take care of and the countless ones I’ve lost. As an oncology nurse, my journey has been marked by numerous moments of both profound sadness and immense joy. But there is one day that stands out as the proudest in my career, a day that encapsulates the essence of why I say I did not choose to be an oncology nurse—it chose me.
It was a typical Tuesday morning; the inpatient oncology unit was buzzing with the usual activity. Patients admitted for their treatments, some with hopeful smiles, others with a quiet determination as they struggled through symptoms from chemotherapy. Among them was a young woman battling an aggressive form of leukemia. She had been undergoing chemotherapy for several months, and her resilience was nothing short of inspiring
Due to her diagnosis and time in the hospital, the entire unit day and night shift had spent countless hours with her, administering treatments, offering comfort, and sharing moments of laughter and tears. We had developed a bond that went beyond the typical nurse-patient relationship. One day, we learned that she had a big dream of attending a large gala event all dressed up with friends and family to support those in the fight against leukemia.
Unfortunately, her health took a turn in the opposite direction, and she would not be discharged in time to attend the event. Many of us got together and discussed the idea of bringing the gala to her by utilizing one our large multipurpose rooms in the hospital. Over the next couple of days, the team came together with decor, a dress, a makeup artist, a hair stylist, and all the essential components to have a gala. It was beautiful to see the hospital administration, environmental services, nurses, and pharmacy techs all come together with the community to make it happen for this patient and her family. As we wheeled her into the transformed multipurpose room, I could feel the weight of her family’s appreciation resting on our shoulders. The room was filled with a palpable sense of joy and camaraderie. Each member of the team knew their role and was committed to ensuring the success of this special event.
The true magic of that day wasn’t seen in lab results, diagnostic imaging, or procedures but in successfully bringing in joy and light during a dark time. The event brought tears of joy to her family and the entire medical team. It was a moment of joy, a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and compassionate care.
However, over time, test results revealed progression of disease, and the patient was never discharged from the hospital. Still, she thanked us for days after for the memories she was able to make during her last days with friends and family. The room was filled with laughter, hugs, and heartfelt gratitude. Her journey had touched the lives of everyone she met, and her life was a beacon of hope for all our patients and their families.
On that proudest day, I was reminded of the profound impact we have as oncology nurses. We are not just caregivers; we are champions of hope and warriors against the scourge of cancer. Joy was a collective triumph, a shining example of what can be achieved when we unite in our mission to heal and support. Honestly, it was difficult to pick just one proud moment to write about. We often don’t get the outcomes we want as oncology nurses, but there are so many proud moments where it is an honor to be a light, share in tears and laughter, and simply be present with our patients and their family/caregivers.
In the end, it is days like this that reaffirm our purpose and fill our hearts with pride. The journey of an oncology nurse is often challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Each success story, each moment of joy, and each expression of gratitude drives us to continue our work with unwavering dedication and compassion.
And so, as I look back on my proudest day as an oncology nurse, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. It is a privilege to be a part of their journey, to offer hope in the darkest of times, and to celebrate the triumphs that make it all worthwhile.
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