As I reflect on my journey from childhood to the present day, I can't help but think about my unwavering passion for making a positive impact on people's lives. This drive led me to pursue a career in nursing, and I soon discovered my love for the fast-paced and intricate world of surgical nursing. When I first moved to the United States, I encountered a patient in need of a brain biopsy for a potential diagnosis of prion disease. This was a challenging situation for our team, as we lacked experience in dealing with this particular illness and providing the necessary surgical nursing care. We sought guidance from management, highlighting the urgent need for more information about the disease and the specific responsibilities of surgical nurses in ensuring the safety and well-being of such patients. This experience served as a powerful reminder of the importance of continuous learning and adherence to established guidelines. It prompted me to delve into the essential protocols for safe practice, leading me to join AORN that same year.

Over the past 32 years, I've taken on various leadership roles in perioperative nursing, honing my skills and expertise. When the COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected changes, I ventured into psychiatric nursing, which broadened my perspective. However, my heart always yearned to return to the operating room, where I feel most alive and in my element. The operating room is where I thrive, juggling multiple tasks, making split-second decisions, and working seamlessly with a diverse team to carry out complex procedures. These are the challenges and rewards that fuel my passion for surgical nursing. Each day presents new opportunities to care for and support patients through their surgical journeys, and I find immense fulfillment in guiding them through their fears and uncertainties.

Being an OR nurse is not just a job – it's a calling that brings me joy, purpose, and the chance to make a real difference in people's lives.