Meet Danielle C., our October Featured Traveler! She’s an impressive woman and mother. Danielle has 8+ years of healthcare experience. She started in the medical field as a CNA, graduated from nursing school in Alabama, and became an Oncology Registered Nurse.
Keep reading to learn more about Danielle’s travel nursing journey.
What inspired you to become a travel nurse and how did you choose the oncology specialty?
One of my past coworkers had talked to me about travel nursing. She told me how rewarding it had been for her. So, I did some research for several months and finally decided I’d give it a shot. I am glad I did! The reason oncology resonated with me is because my grandmother died from cancer. I remember going to Clearview Cancer Institute in Huntsville when I was a little girl with my granny and waiting in the lobby while she got her chemo. I didn’t understand what was going on at the time but now I know how strong a woman she was. She’d take us to the mall afterward and get us something to eat. She was a beautiful person inside and out. She lost her battle with cancer, but she gained her wings. It holds a special place in my heart.
What’s your most memorable experience of working as an Oncology Nurse?
My most memorable experience must be watching this young lady fight colon cancer. She was only 33 and had two children ages 5 and 13, I believe. She spent most of her time in the hospital during her last months but seeing how it impacted her children and seeing how hard she fought to get better will always last with me.
You’re currently an assignment in Charlottesville, Virginia. What do you enjoy most about working in that location?
My current assignment has been great. I work at a great facility with some awesome and knowledgeable people and have extended for another 3 months! My favorite thing about this city is all the wineries and breweries they have here. This is also a historic place with lots of tours of past president’s homes as well. And I’m only 2 hours from Washington DC! So only a day’s drive to see the White House.
How do you balance having a family and being a travel nurse?
Balance? What’s balance? Lol. I’m just winging it. Being away from my children has been the HARDEST thing yet! I talk to them daily though and video calls as well as go home on off days when I can.
Nurses work hard to care for others, but it’s also important to take care of yourself. How do you practice self-care as a travel nurse?
I joined Planet Fitness, go get a massage, go to movies and take myself to dinner. I’m used to going to dinner and movies with four children, so I consider going by myself now self-care. Lol.
What advice would you give a first-time travel nurse?
Jump out there and do it! It’s scary and overwhelming but it’s worth it. It opens many opportunities for your family and yourself.
What do you enjoy about working with Vero?
I have a great recruiter named Michelle Breitburg and the team of compliance and payroll people have been awesome to work with. Paperwork can be a little overwhelming at times, but they’ve worked well with me on everything and I’m glad to be a part of the team.
What’s one thing you absolutely cannot travel without?
My neck pillow! I know it seems small but after a long 12-hour shift, having my neck supported is important for a good night’s rest 😊
And what’s next for Danielle? As a true traveler, she said she’s open to wherever her journey takes her.
