My journey into nursing began after experiencing a miscarriage and going through a divorce—two life-changing events that reshaped my perspective. While I was a nursing assistant at Chico State School of Nursing, I worked every weekend and full-time during the summers. I was determined to ensure my own financial independence and pushed myself to keep going. I started this journey at 38, which was significantly older than my classmates. Thankfully, they welcomed me with open arms, despite my being an “old lady” in their eyes.
Completing the prerequisites for nursing was more challenging than the actual nursing program. Looking back, however, that time was incredibly rewarding and fostered my personal growth. To help manage my student loans, I aimed to work in Iran, where American nurses were reportedly well-compensated. I secured the minimum one year of nursing experience needed for overseas work, but my plans were dashed when the Shah’s regime fell. A fellow nurse, noticing my gloom, suggested Saudi Arabia. After speaking with someone who had just returned and locating the country on a map, I decided to apply.
This decision came with sacrifices, as my nine-year-old daughter would stay with her father and his new wife while I ventured abroad. In 1983, I arrived in Saudi Arabia, where women were not allowed to drive or appear in public without a male guardian, and shops closed for prayer five times daily. I was assigned to the King Khalid Eye Specialty Hospital in Riyadh, the largest eye hospital globally. My contract included some enticing perks: a tax-free salary that felt like a 38% raise, a 44-hour work week, a month of paid leave with return airfare, discounted meals, and a shared two-bedroom apartment with an Australian nurse. The dress code required long skirts and concealed arms, and there were strict rules against interacting with locals.
After orientation, I found myself in the Male Retina Unit, a 48-bed facility specializing in surgeries for cataracts, cornea, retina, and injuries. Within months, I became the Head Nurse for the day shift, overseeing a diverse staff from various countries. After three challenging yet fulfilling years, I paid off my student loans and traveled through Europe and Mexico with my daughter. I even met a wonderful man and remarried, which was a surprise since I had always considered myself a dedicated single woman. Our relationship flourished in a restrictive society, despite risks that could have resulted in severe consequences for both of us. We were fortunate to have found each other and continue to enjoy a happy life together.
In 1991, we moved to El Cerrito, where I worked part-time or cared for my aging parents. Five years later, I persuaded my husband to support my return to the workforce, leading me to the San Francisco Center for Reproductive Medicine. Completely new to the field, I had to dive into the world of IVF. Initially overwhelmed, I feared I’d never grasp all the new information. My role involved admitting, monitoring, and discharging IVF patients undergoing egg retrievals, eventually expanding to ordering medications and supplies and performing quality assurance tasks.
By the time our practice relocated and rebranded, I had been there for five years. I genuinely believe I have the “best job in the world.” Though my role in the IVF process may seem small compared to the coordinators and medical staff, it is incredibly fulfilling. I take pride in caring for our patients; when they arrive for retrieval, some are anxious while others are surprisingly calm. I strive to reassure them that the procedure is straightforward, even if they won’t believe it until it’s over.
I prepare them with warm gowns, slippers, and thorough pre- and post-op instructions, starting their IVs and ensuring they feel comfortable and at ease. I know many patients have endured emotional ups and downs throughout their IVF journey, so I keep tissues handy in each recovery space. These tissues are often needed, and I encourage patients to express their feelings however they need. The financial burden of IVF can feel overwhelming, so I aim to provide as much comfort as possible. Each morning, as I prepare for the day’s procedures, I reflect on how lucky I am to have such a rewarding job.
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In summary, my journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, leading me to a career that I genuinely love, allowing me to support others during one of their most vulnerable times.