I am a retired SSM St. Louis employee with over 44 years of service. I began my career as a Registered Respiratory Therapist in the ICU, where my compassion, empathy, and patience earned me the respect of my colleagues, many of whom encouraged me to pursue nursing. After earning my BSN from SIUE, I returned to the same ICU, transitioning to an RN role. I specialized in cardiovascular recovery, neurosurgery, and trauma for 11 years, followed by 12 years in the cardiac cath lab. It has been a blessing to have had such a fulfilling dual career. I was introduced to the Nurse Honor Guard in 2019, and despite the challenges of COVID, we launched our St. Louis chapter in 2022. Being part of the NHGSTL has been deeply rewarding, as it allows me to honor fallen nurses and celebrate their lifelong dedication to the profession.