I was inducted into Nu Xi Chapter-At-Large in April of 1998 while completing my undergraduate work at Samuel Merritt University. The day stood out for me as the STTI President, Dr. Faye Bower, was present to welcome each and every new inductee into the chapter and the organization as a whole. She specifically asked me how I was going to make a difference. At the time, I wasn't sure but I knew I would someday. Since that time I have made the difference many times over for the patients and families I served as an ICU/ER nurse in our local county hospital. And now, I am helping to make the difference for families and loved ones who choose the option of organ donation at the most difficult times in their lives, the death of a loved one.
In order to help me meet my new role as a nurse educator within the organ procurement agency, I returned to school to pursue my masters degree in nursing with a focus on clinical nursing education at Holy Names University. Little did I realize that Dr. Bower would once again be at my side encouraging me, prodding me, and pushing me to do my best. She also pushed me back into chapter activities. Sometimes I need to really be shoved back into things!! She can be quite persuasive and persistent for which I am forever grateful! Now I am serving as Board Secretary for our local chapter. It is my hope to continue to make the difference in the lives of those I so humbly serve as a nurse educator and as a role model for chapter members.
As I move through this life I realize how truly blessed I am to be surrounded by nurse colleagues who share my passion for education and organ donation. Especially to those who continue to serve as role models and mentors in my professional career. I am honored to be a nurse and to be a part of Sigma Theta Tau.
Sharon Swain, RN, MSN
Clinical Nurse Educator
California Transplant Donor Network
sswain@ctdn.org
nurseswain@yahoo.com