I notice a familiar figure, dressed in bright red, who stands out from the others. With a start, I realize it’s Joyce, one of my heroes. Joyce is the nurse practice manager at our sister health center, and she’s transformed the place into one known for its engaged staff and team-based care. Her warmth and enthusiasm are contagious.
Normally, seeing Joyce fills me joy and anticipation of what great news or interesting question she has for me. But quickly my anticipation turns to dread. She shouldn’t be sitting here, not at 11 pm on a weeknight.
I head out into the pouring rain, marveling at my hero, fully engaged with her life and her work, with enough energy to greet me enthusiastically even as she manages her own family emergency.
Note to reader: Joyce has given me permission to share this story.
Colleen Fogarty
Rochester, New York