Individuals Paying It Forward

From underneath the bridge, the morning sky glowed red with rage. Stiff and cold on this brisk March morning, I emerged with my life in a convenience bag. A change of clothes, and a t-shirt uniform from the greasy spoon that I had departed just a few short hours ago was everything I had. After managing to collect tips much of the night, from the tables of customers out celebrating in the taverns across the street, I pondered what was the end of a 20-year career as a registered nurse. My family, my home, my career, my hope and my soul were gone. I had lost the battle an I was defeated. Bruised and beaten I did not know where to turn. But then someone appeared who paid it forward to me, though she may have called it by another name. She willingly gave of herself and her time to support me in finding recovery and a meaningful life once more. Her time and her wisdom started me on the journey that I have been on. I believe that without Kathy's help and support I would not be in the place where I am today, going to graduate school, changing careers, and loving who I have become today and the life that I am making for myself today, and the difference in the world that I can make in the future.

What I have learned in my journey the last five years is something that I feel quite passionate about. I have absolutely no doubt that the support and interventions by this woman are the biggest part of my ability to function today. Many people are not as fortunate as I am to receive financial and emotional support to receive medical care when there is no availability of insurance to do so. I intend to pay it forward in many ways in my life to give back what has so freely been given to me. Just as students can receive financial aide for college, I believe that people should have the same opportunity to receive financial aide for medical care. I am currently trying to gather the information and support to start such a scholarship for other nurses in need of rehabilitation at the treatment center where I received my care. In this way maybe I can give just a little of what I have received. I am forever grateful.