As a registered nurse resident, I have been incredibly fortunate to have been trained by an exemplary nurse preceptor, Maria. In one of my last shifts orienting under her, I witnessed her demonstrate true compassion and advocacy for one of our patients in a way I will never forget for the rest of my career.

Maria and I were on the treatment team of a young patient who had recently been diagnosed with a degenerative neurological condition. From what I could gather, this patient did not quite grasp the gravity of their condition, as they had canceled the neurology appointment; they were to have that day. If this patient had not followed up with a neurologist soon, it was possible that they would not be able to schedule a follow-up appointment for another five months.

As this patient was being discharged, Maria ran up the stairs to catch up to them, and I followed her closely. Without overstepping as a nurse, Maria urged this patient and her family to reconsider and do whatever they could to schedule an appointment with a neurologist available to meet with this patient. At that moment, I saw the faces of the patient and their family, and I swear it looked as if something clicked in their minds. It's like they had finally understood how significant this patient's condition was. The patient voiced their intention to attend their follow-up appointment, and their mother, holding back tears, thanked Maria for all she had done for them.

After the patient and their family left, Maria and I returned to our unit, fighting back tears. I am humbled to have witnessed Maria demonstrate such selfless advocacy for this patient. I feel that this experience has shown me what it truly means for nursing to be a calling. I am proud that I have pledged myself to this vocation, and after this experience, I will strive to be a nurse that I can be proud of in the same way that I am so proud of Maria.