Christopher D. Reyes, CCRN, CPN is a DNP Pediatric Primary Care NP student. He plans to complete his education in Spring 2021. Christopher D. Reyes is also a Captain in the Army Reserve Nurse Corps.
Sometimes the two conflict.
Like in February of 2018 when he registered for two spring courses (Advanced Physiology/ Pathophysiology and Advanced Nursing Health Policy), but was suddenly placed back on active duty, ordered to mobilize on short notice, required to conduct extended combat training (which took him away from his studies), and finally, deployed with a mission where he could provide medical support.
Christopher developed a plan of action for his schoolwork—and executed it with military precision.
First he made a concerted effort to communicate with his group members and submitted what work he had completed early in order to disrupt the groups’ work dynamics as little as possible. Then, he sent his professors a list detailing the assignments and exams that would be interrupted with a plan for him to complete them. Finally, he decided to withdraw from one course and receive an incomplete (to finish the course before the next term) in the other.
Then Christopher was free to concentrate on the mission, with his professors’ support and safe wishes. Dr. Brenda Nettles wrote, “As a military wife, I know the mission comes first. Your academic goals may be on hold for the moment, but I have no doubt you will be ready to move forward again once you return home. Please be safe and take care. Thank you for your service.”
A week later Christopher checked in.
The satellite link is up, and I wanted to take this brief moment to send out an email. I get one shot at it, and I am still praying it sends.
Let me start off by saying a big THANK YOU for all the support I have received from the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing faculty during this stressful time. Everyone has made it easier for me as I navigate the unpredictability of Army life.
I am doing well, busy, cold and wet. But we are going to make it. Combat Support Hospitals are the best experience; every nurse should try it!
I look forward to my return back to a normal life and my academic progress. Until then, please stay safe and I’ll update the whole team at my next opportunity.
A month later, Christopher was back home.
Good News! I am now stateside. I have a few days of combat debriefing and medical screening, however I now have access to email.
Once again thank you so much for all your support during this critical needs mission. The attached picture below gives insight into what we do as military health care leaders and shows the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing’s presence around the world as our nurses are deployed to care for America’s warriors. Stay Army Strong!
Christopher, thank you for your service, and the invaluable diversity of perspectives you bring to the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, and the nursing profession.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: SYDNEE LOGAN
Sydnee Logan is the Social Media and Digital Content Coordinator for Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. She shares what’s going on here with the world.