Sacred Story by Katie Oliver, RN Respiratory Therapist

Have you ever cared for a patient that leaves a lasting mark on your heart? Early in my career, I had the honor of being the Respiratory Therapist for a quadriplegic patient who had a tracheostomy and was ventilator dependent. He and his wife were extremely kind, and a couple that I will never forget. After caring for the patient for several weeks, he passed away. I lost touch with his wife, and often wondered where she was now and how she was doing.

Recently, I attended a convention and was approached by a Respiratory Therapy student. I did not recognize the woman at first, then she told me that I had cared for her husband. It was my patient’s wife! She thanked me for caring for her husband throughout his illness. The care that my colleagues and I provided for her husband had inspired her to become a Respiratory Therapist!

I have never before received such an amazing compliment. This moment made me realize that God always has a purpose in each situation, no matter how trying or difficult. I am so grateful to be a Respiratory Therapist, and work with colleagues who display the compassion of Christ in all we do.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. –Romans 8:28 (NIV)

As a CHI St. Vincent co-worker, have you had an experience at work that revealed God’s divine presence to you? Have you witnessed another co-workers faith at work or encountered a glimpse into the spirituality of the people with whom you work?   

If you can answer yes to any of these questions, your story could be published in the 2017 issue of the Catholic Health Initiatives Sacred Stories.  It will also be published here on the OneSpirit blog. Send your story to Patrick McCruden,  Senior Vice President and Chief Mission Officer at [email protected].