I can say from experience it is the most rewarding feeling to finish. It's something you do for you and it's so empowering! You go girl!!! It's a great feeling!

Thank you so much!! DON= director of nursing and ADON= assistant director of nursing! I have worked in this facility for 6 years and started as just a nurse aide while I was in my bachelors program, the i worked there as an RN through my masters program. I finished my masters and I happened to be incredibly close with our DON and we had only had an acting ADON at the time because of some things that were going on. I applied for the official position and I got it, and have only been mentored by an amazing DON who has been there for/with me since I even had my RN. So I had a couple of years as a nurse under my belt, I had worked as a nursing assistant through school, I know my facility, I know my patients (yes they change but I make it a point to "get to know" every patient that comes through our doors, even if it's only for a 72 hour hold), and I LOVE my job. So to me, while I am quite shocked it's so soon, this has been my "plan" all along. My DON decided to take her retirement plan this year, and this came on sort of suddenly because she made the decision after her daughter (who oddly enough is only 3 years older than I am) suffered a stillborn child in February, and has subsequently she's been diagnosed with uterine cancer and she and her husband (obviously) are going through a terrible time. She decided it was best to retire earlier than originally planned and be with her family. While my heart breaks for the circumstances this has come about, I am so thankful that she feels enough trust in me to take her place. I have a meeting at 11 to discuss the details and while I know it's going to be incredibly hard work and I have a lot to learn in these next few months, I accept the challenge with open arms!