Reflections
I’m Helping More People
Than I Ever Thought Possible
by Stephen Hoggard (School of Nursing, ‘07)
It was literally an accident that led me to a nursing career.
I was working as a golf turf manager at a country club in Aiken, S.C., when I got the telephone call. The voice of my girlfriend, who later became my wife, shook as she told me her brother, Jason, had been involved in a terrible motorcycle accident in Tennessee. We drove for hours to be by his
side. He looked surprisingly well at first glance. Although we saw no obvious abrasions or cuts, Jason’s prognosis was not good. The doctor informed us that severe injuries to his spine had left him paralyzed with only limited use of his arms.
I was shocked to see the man who is now my brotherin- law—someone who had become a good friend in recent months—lose so much in the blink of an eye. We had spent many mornings working out together at the gym, and I knew how healthy he was before the accident.
After a stay at The Shepherd Center in Atlanta, we brought him home to begin a very different life from the one he had known. He slowly adjusted to being more dependent on others and found a new sense of normal. I offered him emotional support and a lent a hand when he needed it.
It wasn’t long before I noticed that he seemed more comfortable when I helped with certain tasks, particularly with things that required more strength than his sister or mom could provide. He felt safer when I transferred him to the car and handled him in the wheelchair, and I discovered that I truly enjoyed working with him.
The thought of a career change had been heavy on my mind even before the accident, and I was especially ready after witnessing the fragility of life so close to home. After returning to school for the required prerequisites, I was pleased to receive my acceptance letter from the Medical College of Georgia School of Nursing.
In May, I joined one of the most highly regarded professions in the world. I am more than satisfied with my decision to become a nurse, and am grateful for all the opportunities that will emerge as I begin my career. I am indebted to Jason for helping me find a rewarding career, and to my wife for supporting us as I reach my goal.
During my MCG education, I cared for every age range in a variety of medical fields. It feels good to know that I’m helping more people than I ever thought possible, and to see the positive results of my work on a daily basis. Though I may come home tired, I know that each day I will make a difference in someone’s life, which for me is the best reward.
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