When I began my nursing program at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh in the fall of 1969, I felt I was embarking on a journey and a calling to make a difference in the health and well-being of others. It was the beginning steps to my career as a registered nurse, first in psychiatric nursing, then into community and public health, and eventually into counseling as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am now retired.
Although I was proud and felt "official" when I wore my student nurse uniform and cap, I never wore a white uniform, white shoes, or my nursing cap for my first job. I wore regular clothes or a navy blue uniform. I somewhat felt that white uniform was missing.
My involvement with the Wisconsin Nurses Honor Guard (WNHG), a statewide network of nurses who volunteer their time to honor their fallen nursing colleagues is a privilege. I learned about WNHG when I saw a Facebook post about a funeral for a nurse I knew. Her daughter posted the ceremony, which a mutual friend was part of. Not knowing about this program, I reached out to my friend, and we met to discuss more about the organization and this wonderful opportunity to give honor to others.
I decided to get involved because giving honor to someone who has made a difference in our lives is the most fitting tribute to their nursing service. The ceremony can be either at the time of their funeral or memorial or sometimes an honoring near their death. And now, I wear that white uniform, the white shoes and stockings, and my nursing cap to be a symbol of honor for that nurse. As we provide a final tribute (free of charge) for any active or retired licensed, registered, or advanced practice nurse in Wisconsin, the honor can be felt in the hearts of all.
When I speak to the nurses’ loved ones, hear the stories they share, and console them through their tears, I am reminded that the nursing profession is truly a calling. Not everyone can make that difference, not everyone can wear a "uniform" of this profession, and not everyone can share in the grief and give compassion in honor of another.
It has been difficult at times to look into the eyes of the family members, as I have read the final statements of the ceremony: "Nurse ______, you have served your profession with dignity, integrity, and compassion. You have been relieved of your Earthly duties, and your nursing brothers and sisters will take it from here." The eyes of spouses tearing up, the distraught faces of parents when a young nurse has died, the sad faces of children when their mother's life has ended—they have all touched my heart immensely, and honoring those who have dedicated their lives to nursing has made a remarkable difference in my life.
To learn more about the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition, I recommend visiting their Facebook page, which has information about starting or locating an honor guard near you.
Patricia R. Toney, BSN, MSE, LPC, is a retired registered nurse and counselor. She is a member of Sigma’s Eta Pi Chapter.