Passing the Baton

When the practice becomes truly bleak, I draw upon the challenges I encountered in my training. I know that the countless hours I dedicated to this journey have given me the strength and knowledge to draw upon in times of uncertainty. The fact that I have completed my training and have made it to this “starting line” demonstrates that I am capable of taking on the challenges that lie ahead of me and that I am ready for success.

My first year of NP practice is just the first mile of my marathon career. I have not chosen an easy task; being a nurse practitioner is often very hard. However, like the marathon, it rewards those who are brave enough to take part in it. It is a challenge that others have tried and failed; it is a distinction to say you are a marathoner or you are an NP. As I discover the victories and obstacles in the miles ahead, I happily realize just how wrong I was when I considered graduation the finish line. No, this is only the beginning ….

Melissa Donais currently practices at North Reading Medical Associates, a primary care clinic affiliated with Winchester Hospital in Massachusetts.