How did we spend National Nurses Week at Covington Ridge? Well, we spent it by hearing from some of our own residents who were career nurses themselves. Thanks to Crystal Neal, our Activities Director, who sat down in each interview to carefully record responses in their own words.

Today, you have the privilege of hearing the interview from Ms. Betty Hough. Listen as she reminisces about her days in nursing.

Q: Where did you go to nursing school?
A: “Mississippi Baptist Hospital in Jackson. I was about 20 years old.”

Q: When you were a little girl, did you want to be a nurse when you grew up?
A: “All my life! I never wanted to be anything else…nothing! I was passionate about nursing.”

Q: What nursing jobs did you have?
A: “I worked at Magee General Hospital. I worked there my entire 34 year career. I had a stroke and had to retire. I’m not sure how old I was.”

Q: What is a favorite memory of your time as a nurse?
A: “I have several favorite memories…too many to tell.”

Q: How has nursing changed from then to today?
A: “All I can tell is that EVERYTHING has changed. EVERYTHING! We had to wear a watch and a cap. It was a more professional look.”

Q: What did you find most rewarding about being a nurse?
A: She smiled very big and said, “Everything, just everything! Loving people and having them love me back. I love people!”

Q: What advice do you have for future nurses?
A: “Be sure and ask the right questions to the right people. Be sure…be sure that you do.”