A Clear Focus: Past, Present, and Future

So much comes to my mind when I look at my relationship with this hospital. Almost 32 years ago I came here as an unsure seventeen year-old, not at all certain that I had much of anything to offer. Now as a PCA since 1994, I find my commitment to this institution grow stronger with each passing year.

Why? We’re “front-line” next to nursing in direct patient care. We’re also in a unique position to touch the lives of patients in many other ways: a sudden conversation in the hallway to offer a personal level of concern, a chance to hold someone’s hand at the moment it’s needed most, even those times when one visits the funeral home to pay final respects and offer condolences to a grieving family.

Two years ago I was seen by the extraordinary people in Genetics clinic. That appointment changed my life. The staff identified my family genetic disorder; they told me what it would mean and how it should apply to the rest of my life. Because of this, I’ll live longer and, hopefully, remain cancer-free.

Since September 11th, the day of our national tragedy, we’re all doing some serious soul-searching regarding our lives and how we fit into the larger order. I like to think that here at Yale-New Haven, we’ll continue to focus our abilities, concern and compassion for our brothers and sisters for many years to come. To me, that is what it means to be part of the human family.

I have a goal: I want to stand next to the hospital president at the 200th anniversary celebration in 2026. (Mr. Zaccagnino?) Only then, I’ll retire—three years later. It will then be a total of 60 years. Who wants to join me?

Laura Hagfeldt
North Branford, Ct