This particular period in my life involved a lot of hard work and emotional stress. I was holding down a full-time job and going to school in the evening. In addition to that, I found myself going through a divorce for the second time. All these factors were challenging, but I knew that I must persevere. Eventually, I would see a light at the end of the tunnel. I achieved my goal of finishing college and receiving my degree. My personal life got back to normal. I began applying for other higher paying jobs within the hospital, but there seemed to be no way for me to break through. The hospital was going through a period of downsizing and reorganization.

It finally happened! My job was eliminated. One day my supervisor came to me and said, “Carol in Human Resources needed to talk with me.” I could not imagine what was so important. The human resources representative told me that my job was being eliminated. I was being laid off. I experienced total shock, because I had worked for the hospital for 22 years. I became numb with total disbelief. I sat there just staring at the representative. Then I felt a tear trickling out my left eye. The representative said:

“There might be a possibility for another job in another department, call back at 3:00 p.m. today. In the meantime, go back to your office to pick up your things an do not say anything to anybody. You will be paid for today and also given two weeks severance pay.”

I tried to do just what she said, but on the way out, the custodian, Delores asked, “Where are you going?” She knew something was wrong. I said, “This is my last day here”, and kept walking. She looked shocked. I did call the human resources representative back at 3:00 p.m. and she told me, “The Admitting Department has a position for an interviewer”. I was happy to be considered for the position since I was given such short notice about my termination. This would be an adjustment for me, because I had never worked directly with patients. My prior position was administrative management. My salary was reduced by 25 percent. I would work different hours and alternate weekends. I appreciated the offer of the job and took it, but I knew I could not remain in that position. I had been and excellent, dependable employee, and I believe because of this work ethic, the human resources representative recommended me for this position. There were other employees laid off who had not been given an opportunity to transfer to other positions within the hospital.