Diversity Equity Inclusion & Belonging - May 8, 2025

A Nurse’s Journey and Advice

by Lailanie Carlos, GHBC Director of Nursing

My journey from Asia (the Philippines) to the United States began in 1995—a leap into the unknown, filled with fear and uncertainty about life without my family. As a young person away from my parents for the first time and living in a small city in Maryland, I felt a mix of fear and excitement, knowing that America was often referred to as “the land of opportunity.” My main goal was to improve my family’s financial situation. My parents, especially my father, made significant sacrifices to send me to the U.S. Sadly, he passed away just three years after my arrival.

Initially, I aspired to become an accountant. When the school I intended to attend closed, I went back to nursing, having trained as a nurse in the Philippines. As the saying goes, “God has a way of guiding us where we need to be,” and that’s exactly what happened to me.

Being alone was challenging; there were times I wanted to give up and return home, overwhelmed by loneliness and missing my family. Back then, communication wasn’t as easy as it is today. We relied on prepaid calling cards for brief conversations, which lasted only 30 minutes before abruptly ending.

The work was tough in the beginning. Even though I was a registered nurse, I couldn’t practice without my RN license, so I took a CNA position instead. At my small stature, handling residents who were often much larger than me was quite a challenge. Plus, I had to walk two miles to work daily because I didn’t have a car; I had to depend on the kindness of others for rides. However, I remained determined to support my family back home, constantly reminding myself of my father’s words: “There are no gains without pain. Pursue your dreams and hold on tight; this is just the beginning.”

Being a CNA was becoming increasingly burdensome, so every night after work I studied diligently for my National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which all nursing graduates must pass to be licensed to practice as an RN. When I finally passed the NCLEX, the Director of Nursing informed me that there were no RN positions available, so I had to continue working as a CNA at first. Seeking better opportunities, I moved closer to Washington, D.C., where I found a facility willing to sponsor my permanent residency and allow me to practice as an RN in 1996.

My hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed; management recognized my performance and offered me a position as Unit Manager, marking the start of my career trajectory. I also met my husband at this facility and began building my own family. I learned to seek the right opportunities, rather than simply apply for every open position. When opportunities came to me, I embraced them without hesitation and strove to excel in each role.

Throughout my journey, I faced numerous ups and downs, but I never allowed these challenges to deter me. Instead, I viewed them as integral parts of my journey, each one helping to shape me into a stronger person and leader. I believe that without experiencing hardship, success would not feel as rewarding. No successful person achieves their goals without facing obstacles.

Patience and persistence are essential. It’s crucial to find joy in what you do—not for monetary gain, but for a deeper purpose. Understanding your purpose can help you visualize your future. Nursing is undoubtedly a demanding profession, but the fulfillment that comes from caring for our residents far outweighs any financial reward. One must truly have a passion for nursing to thrive in this field.

To current and aspiring nursing professionals, I offer this advice:

1. Embrace Challenges: Your struggles are not just personal hurdles, but rather stepping stones to professional excellence.
2. Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced nurses and learn from them.
3. Maintain Perspective: Remember that your journey, though it may be difficult, contributes to the rich diversity of the healthcare industry. Your unique perspective and experience are valuable assets to the profession.
4. Keep Learning: Continue your professional development through formal education and certification programs.

Your journey, like mine, can inspire others and contribute to the evolving landscape of the healthcare industry. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about reaching your goals; it’s about embracing the journey, finding joy in what you do and holding onto your purpose.

Remember: the path may be difficult but, returning again to my father’s words, “there are no gains without pain.” Your determination today shapes the future of healthcare tomorrow.

Now, I challenge you to reflect on your own journey. What dreams are you pursuing? Embrace your challenges, remain committed and remember that every step forward is a step toward your goals. Your passion and perseverance will define your path. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Create them, and let your journey inspire others.

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Goodwin Living DEIB Committee: Statement of Purpose: Educate, Embrace and Empower team members, residents, members* and all served by Goodwin Living to support Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.

Goodwin Living DEIB Committee Desired Outcome: The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee (DEIB) will seek open and honest communication and collaboration that will inform and celebrate the age, culture, ethnicity and sexual orientation of team members, residents, members* and all served by Goodwin Living without bias.

*Members include Priority Club members and Goodwin Living at Home.

Questions or comments? Please contact us DEIB@GoodwinLiving.org