“I think of myself as a nurse, and I always will.”
That’s the hard part of retiring after 44 years at the bedside. But that doesn’t mean Kari Pierson isn’t excited about what’s coming next. She’s looking forward to spending more time with her grandchildren, Ezra (left) and Theo, and her children (left to right), Maggie, Matthew and Melissa.
Kari, who works in the Surgical ICU at Nebraska Medical Center, officially retires July 7. Her husband of 42 years, Michael, will retire soon, too. The couple plans to travel, spend time with friends and volunteer.
The things she won’t miss include the physical toll of 12-hour shifts. But what she’ll definitely miss include the caring for patients and her amazing team.
“I’ve met so many amazing people over the years and we’re still friends,” Kari says. “Patients send you Christmas cards and retirement party invitations. I treasure those relationships.”
“I have known Kari for over 35 years, she has been a great coach and mentor to a countless number of RNs and CNAs, myself included,” says Chad Himmelberg, SICU nurse manager. “Kari’s retirement is bittersweet for our team. On one hand, we are excited and wish her well, on the other, we will greatly miss her.”
“The nurses at Nebraska Medicine provide expert care,” Kari says. “The future is in good hands.”
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3wThank you!