Today's entry comes from a guest blogger, Lois Fehse, the Manager of Development from the Office of Development & Alumni Relations in Downers Grove. I have known Lois for my entire 12 years at MWU; in fact, she interviewed me when I first applied for a position at the University. She has been a colleague and a friend, who describes herself as a "lifer" at MWU and has seen many changes in her role in Development & Alumni Relations. It is always gratifying to see students succeed in our programs and go on to become practitioners. We often encounter our "former" students in our local hospitals, physician's offices, pharmacies, and therapy centers. Lois had these same types of experiences when she worked in a hospital in her previous career. Following is her blog:
"I have been with the university for just over 16 years. However, before that I was a much younger registered nurse and had the opportunity to witness many situations in a hospital setting.
Some of course were very sad. It is always distressing to lose the fight to save a patient. However, I like to focus on the battles that were won. I remember a young teenager with leukemia who after several years of treatment was declared ‘cancer-free.’ I hope he went on to live a happy and healthy life. I remember the joy written all over the faces of his parents and siblings.
I worked at a teaching hospital. I remember many of the young residents all with fresh faces and the mentality that they were going to save the world. Of course there were the cocky ones that thought they knew more than their attending physicians. And then there were those that held back a bit, unsure of their roles and being downright scared. I remember several experiences that still make me chuckle. In my role, I was able to watch several young people go on to become fine physicians.
In closing, you will face many challenges both professionally and personally. Some will be sad, frustrating, joyful, and downright hilarious. But the point is you are entering a field that will bring you great satisfaction – the joyful tears of a new mother, the smile of an old man that you have taken the time to talk to, and the comfort you will give to grieving family members."
