Everyday Superhero:
Candice, LVN

Name: Candice

Profession: Licensed Vocation Nurse (LVN) at a Psych Hospital

Why did you decide to pursue nursing?

After becoming a mother at such a young age, I wanted a stable career to be able to provide for my son. I’ve always been drawn to helping others, so I pursued nursing and became an LVN.

What is the most challenging aspect of being a nurse?

The most challenging aspect is not being able to help everyone. Healthcare is not always positive. There is sickness and hurt that medicine can’t cure, and it’s hard to see people not get better.

What motivates you to keep going after a particularly difficult day at work? 

I stay motivated by remember I’m not alone – I have amazing coworkers who I can always count on, I have family and friends who are just a phone call away. I’m just a small page in this book. Teamwork and support helps me go forward.

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What advice do you have for someone starting out in the nursing field?

Be yourself! With all of the hustle, it’s easy to lose yourself. Take time to appreciate what you are doing for others and the difference you are making in the world. Don’t forget to pat yourself on the back.

What is your most memorable moment with a patient?

I was a new hospice nurse and was a little nervous on my first visit alone. I went to a nursing home to visit an older lady who was living her last hours. She was alone – no family, no friends. She was non-verbal, but I saw in her eyes she needed someone to just hold her hand.

I knew I was meant to help, to heal, to comfort, to just hold people’s hands.

I held her hand all night long, making sure she was comfortable and felt safe. She passed away that night on my shift, the first person I had who passed away. I knew she was at peace and felt comfortable not being alone. That was it for me; I knew I was meant to be a nurse. I knew I was meant to help, to heal, to comfort, to just hold people’s hands.

Who is your superhero?

My superhero is my mom. She was a single mom who always worked hard and provided for her kids. She taught me how to be independent, confident, and honest. She has loved me unconditionally and has always supported my decisions. She taught me how to work hard and how to balance life through the good and the bad. I would not be the woman I am without her guiding me in the right direction. Thanks, Mom!

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Have a question for Candice? Leave it in the comments below!