A calling I can’t ignore, a family I won’t sacrifice — this is my last shot chasing a dream.
My name is Brian and I want to become a nurse. After 25 years of working in IT, I’m making one final attempt to answer a calling I’ve felt for many years. I want to serve others and care for people during their time of need.
For years, I felt pulled toward healthcare but could never find a way to change careers without hurting my family. I kept pushing the dream aside because being a good husband and dad came first. That led to many cycles of trying, giving up, and trying again.
Recently, my dad had a stroke. It was scary and stressful, but thankfully he is making a great recovery. The time spent in the hospital with my dad has reignited my desire to move into healthcare. Seeing the doctors, nurses, techs, and others work around the clock to take care of him reminded me exactly why I have wanted to do this for so long. I want to be part of a team that helps people in their most vulnerable moments.
Unfortunately, wanting something and being able to do it are very different things.
I’m currently exploring nursing programs. The biggest obstacle isn’t just the schedule and coursework — it’s the permanent and significant income drop that comes with changing careers after working in IT for so many years. I won’t be able to maintain the income my family has relied on for decades. This isn’t a temporary dip. It’s a permanent pay cut as nursing pay does not match IT pay.
And no matter how much I desire to get into healthcare, I will not chase my dream and force my wife to give up hers. She has her own calling of working with preschool-aged children. Her work matters. Her joy matters. I will not change careers if it means she has to walk away from doing what she loves.
I’m not good at asking for help, and honestly, it’s embarrassing. But I’m out of options, and this is my last-ditch effort to make this dream a reality.
I’m raising funds to help with:
- Tuition and program fees
- Books, uniforms, and clinical supplies
- Licensing exam costs
- Expenses for travel required to complete labs and clinicals
I know my problem isn’t your responsibility, but I would be grateful for your support. Please share my story with friends and family to get it out to the world .
I’ve gone back and forth for weeks about posting this. I feel guilty asking for help… but I’m not letting this dream die without one more fight.
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