I see that compassion changes us (a note from team member Nicole McCune)

Compassion is revolution, this is something I once read and have since thought much about. Working as a nurse for the last 14 years I see that compassion changes us, I believe that it is a true reflection of our genuine spirit. The part of us that cares deeply for others regardless of social status, education, religion, past wrongs, disease, or deformity. We all suffer, and to have compassion for others can allow us to break ourselves open to our own humanity and see the value each of has to contribute to this life.

I am proud to work as a CRNA (certified registered nurse anesthetist) performing all types of anesthesia for adults, children, and obstetric patients. My prior nursing career was primarily intensive care and some emergency room. Working at home in Alaska and around the US as a travel nurse has given me many opportunities to provide compassionate care to those in my own country.

Travel is in my blood and when an opportunity to be invited across the globe was given, saying yes seemed easy. Prior to University I traveled to Vietnam, the

Philippines, and India for work-based missions. Since that time, travel has become more about adventure and pleasure than volunteer work.

Liz Wood’s leadership role in the nursing field gained my attention back in Fairbanks, Alaska. In 2007, I remember hearing stories of her adventure and success taking a surgical team to Indonesia. Years later we got the opportunity to work together in the emergency room. As the time came for me to begin anesthesia school, I asked Liz if I could give her a call once I had some years under my belt, and see what she might be up to. So it begins, an opportunity to provide compassionate anesthesia care to the children in Uganda with Liz Wood and Global Medical and Surgical Teams.

I know we will be changed by the people we meet. These special families in Uganda who allow us to

use our knowledge and skills to help alleviate some of the illness and disease that afflicts them and much of humanity, they are not alone.

For anyone who choses to donate to our mission we will bring with us not only our skills and education but the compassion many of us have for those with limited access to health care and surgery around the world.

Nicole