Reaching out to let you know many people are lifting you as you move forward with your career. Reach out to each other when you feel overwhelmed. Every life experience becomes a part of who you are and helps you connect to other people who are dealing with the traumatic effects of illness. Comfort is an important part of healing for you now and for the people you will serve on your career path. Be on the receiving end now and the giving end as you grow as a Nurse.
— A forever Nole Nurse, Class of 1974
The journey is sometimes tough, but you have what it takes - lead with your heart, compassion and with the knowledge that you bring something unique and wonderful to this noble calling. Those of us who came before have your back and are HONORED to be passing the torch to YOU. You are going to make a difference, you are going to speak love for your fellow human beings, you are going to bring joy and comfort to many, and we are so, so proud of you. You've got this!
— Mitzi, Leesburg, VA, Class of 1992
As a South Florida nurse and a Noles fan, my heart is heavy at this time for you all. Please know there are many nurses out there who are praying for you, that you find strength, support and love within yourselves and each other.What we do as nurses is so vital, so please do not ever forget how important you are and how much your hard work means to the world. I wish you all the best, and may I say, happy nurses week!
To my Fellow Nole Nurses and Students, returning to campus this summer may seem weird, different, and empty. I want you to know you are not alone. You are part of a community of FSU Nurses, Faculty, and Nursing Students who are resilient, courageous, and strong. Nursing is the backbone of humanity. In lightness and darkness, nurses come together. We stand together not only to support one another, but the communities and individuals we serve every day. You can do this! You are what makes FSU a great place to study and be a part of. Take each day as a blessing and never forget your why and reason for entering this great field. We are all here for you and for your success! Go Noles!
Our God is a God of not only justice but also of compassion and mercy. John 3:16. He loves us each beyond our comprehension. He wants you to call on Him. Prayer influences God's actions, and it helps us focus. It increases our hope and comfort and unburdens us when we give our circumstances up to Him.This applies to prayer for the shooting victims, their families, your patients, fellow students, teachers and anyone uplifted in your prayer. And you can apply this strategy throughout your entire lifetime. Thank you, Lord, for the hope that you give us in your Word. Thank you that the Holy Spirit gives such comfort to my mind, peace to my heart, and blessings of gracious love of the Father to my soul. Prayers unprayed will be prayers unanswered. When we plug into God's power, it is our means of defeating evil, which we are powerless to overcome by ourselves. James 5:16-18. It was Max Lucado who said, "Worry is when you talk to yourself about something you can do nothing about. Prayer is when you talk to God about what He can do."
In closing, it is important for people to have an emotional connection in human relationships, but not to feel overwhelmed. It has been my experience that people really feel valued and appreciated when they know that you prayed for them.
Be well,
Oftentimes, life as we'd imagine changes in a split second. Mourning and desiring the previous life is something that may never leave us. Learning how to navigate a different way forward can seem daunting. Yet as we push ourselves, we discover strength and learn to create deeper connections. This process can reveal a more meaningful life purpose that we'd never imagined. This is how ashes are made into beauty. May you find a new hope in the days ahead and imagine life's beauty again.
What happened was cruel, unjust and devastating. You chose to be a nurse for a moment such as this, to help people in times like this, to CARE for those affected, including yourself. This is tough, but so are you. You're so strong that you're not going to let this harden your heart, but allow this to make you an even more caring and compassionate human being.
Care for yourself as you would for a patient. Offer yourself kindness and compassion. Be mindful of your needs and trust your knowledge and education. Hold your own heart gently and breathe fully. Accept a caring hand as you would offer so quickly and authentically to others. Consider the wise advice offered by the flight attendant and begin by nursing yourself first.
Dear Nole Nurses,
As a 2015 graduate, I remember the pain and fear surrounding the FSU library shooting in 2014. I am deeply sorry that you are now walking through something similar. Please know you are not alone. You are resilient, courageous, and part of the best BSN program out there. This moment does not define you; your strength and compassion do. Keep pushing forward. The world needs nurses like you, and after graduation, it's yours to change.
In the wake of the recent tragedy, please know that your FSU family stands with you in solidarity and compassion. As future nurses, you are the embodiment of strength, care, and resilience, and these qualities shine even brighter in times of hardship. Take the time you need to grieve, process, and heal. Lean on each other, your mentors, and your support systems. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, but never forget that your journey and your well-being matter. You are not alone. We believe in you, and we are here for you today and always.
Upon my graduation, I accepted a commission in the US Navy Nurse Corps. I served at many duty stations over the course of my Navy career, but it wasn't until my assignment to the USS Theodore Roosevelt CVN-71 that I felt challenges like never before. Deployment to the Persian Gulf in 1991 amplified those challenges. Despite them, I always knew I had, and could count on, the support of others. As you resume your very important studies, know that you have the support of so many Seminoles (always a Nole!) and be encouraged in your pursuits.
Tragedy and adversity teach us lessons no other experience can. Choose to respond with strength, compassion and empathy for each other as you navigate this heavy time. Remember, as Noles we are unconquerable!
“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it." - Maya Angelou.
May you continue to persevere in your studies and become the light for your future patients and community, as always, go Noles!
Noles Nurses have persevered for decades and generations as we're are forever united! Reach out for support if needed, we are here.
Your fears and concerns are valid. What you've witnessed has been traumatic. You're a strong and capable individual. Your dedication and skills as a Nole nurse are valuable, and you will make a difference in the lives of others. You have handled a lot, and you are not alone. Stay strong, Fellow Noles, as I pledge to stand with you.
At times like this, it is important to remember that there are many good people in the world. Keep the faith.
I was a freshman living on campus when there was a shooting in 2014, and it was terrifying. I'm so sorry y'all also had to experience this. I hope you're finding support and comfort in those who love you. Hang in there, and do whatever you need to take care of yourself this summer!
Be the face of compassion and kindness. Be the hands of skillful, medical administration. Be the feet of timely and earnest attention when and wherever needed.
We need you now more than ever. Take heart that difficult times will pass. Believe in the work that you are doing and the work that you will be doing. Compassion, competence and caring are what you will bring to a world in need.
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for answering the call to care for others.
Nursing is a calling and a profession of the heart! It takes dedication and courage. Always stay focused on your goal and know that the Nole Nurses are cheering for you, all the way to the finish line!
Often we feel overwhelmed, almost hopeless. But we, as a nurse community, are strong, resilient and will continue to persevere. We will continue to show that we care, and we are so proud of you and your continued efforts to move forward into YOUR nursing career.
As you return to campus this summer, please know you are not alone. In the wake of the recent tragedy, our hearts are with you. We, your fellow FSU Nursing alumni, stand beside you, offering strength, solidarity and unwavering support.
You're preparing to bring healing into a world that deeply needs it, especially now. It's okay to feel shaken, but remember the strength that brought you this far. You are part of a community that stands with you and is there to support you.
We are thinking about you and praying for your health and safety.
Your courage to show up, work hard and lean on each other even in the midst of challenge and a heavy heart is encouraging and inspiring.
In the face of senseless violence, your strength in simply getting through each day is an act of courage. Let yourself feel, grieve and rest. There is no right way to heal. Noles forever!
Our hearts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. Your strength, compassion and commitment to healing are needed now more than ever. Please remember to care for yourselves and lean on one another; you are not alone.
Your Nole Nurse community is here for you always. Lean on each other, your faculty and past students in this time. You've chosen a career of compassion, selflessness and strength. You're courageous for choosing this profession. Be a sponge and have an amazing summer semester!
The impact of the traumatic event of last month is profound. As future nurses, you have chosen a profession grounded in compassion, courage and care. Those same qualities will carry you forward through challenging times. Please remember that your well-being remains a priority. Take care of yourselves, lean on the support around you. You are not alone, and we believe in you.
Knowing that you have chosen nursing as your profession, it makes sense that this very tragic situation brings out your compassion and concern for others, even as you deal with the fear and sadness yourself. Thank you for committing to a profession of service. Thank you for that commitment. Be well. Your Nole Nurse Supporter.
Believe in your goal, your dream, and most importantly, believe in your ability to achieve them. You can do it!
Nurses are the most trusted profession for a reason. We face adversity with determination and passion to provide hands-on care with skill and compassion. You are needed. You are trusted. You are the real FSU, forever.
Congratulations on moving to this next term in nursing. You have chosen wisely in your career, bringing your knowledge and caring to others in need.
Focus on the helpers. They're there. Sometimes they are more evident in times of stress and trauma.
May you always know that you made one of the best career choices. We know that tragic things happen; however, as a fellow Noles nurse, we want you to continue your career path. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Nole Nursing Students- You are a bright light for the future of nursing and health care! Shine on!
Sending you hugs of love and protection at a time when your peace has been penetrated. Nurses are heroes who care for others throughout their lives. I wish for you that you learn, early on, to allow others to care for you, support you and help you. Put that oxygen mask on first to help the others you have been called to serve. Self-care is your lifeline for a lifetime. Stay resilient and maintain balance in your life. Thinking of you all and wishing you find a spark of joy in this difficult and dark time, and know we care for you and love you. Sending you hugs of love and protection at a time when your peace has been penetrated.
