Pacific Lutheran University

WELCOME           

     Hi, My name is Donnette O'Neill. I am a student at PLU in the nursing program. My graduation date is December 2010, if I can reflect a good grade in Pathophysiology, which I intend to pass! I grew up in the southern part of Tacoma. I attended Parkland Lutheran School from K-8 grade. I then continued in the local public school where I was introduced to Science labs and classrooms. My little world got bigger then it had ever been. This spark of interest held until I was able to start college. I had a big plan. Get married, have children, and then school. I planned each of my pregnancies, took the time and energy to raise my children, and then started my education as the youngest started his.

     As time went on, one family member after another fell ill and needed someone to care for them. I was the "At home person", who could feasible give the care. I nursed by father through three knee operations and a thyroid goiter. I nursed by mother through two hand operations, two feet operations, a bladder operation, and an ankle surgery and Crones disease, which continues to plague her. I cared for my grandmother on two separate occasions for secondary polio. I learned to see her signs and hear her symptoms. I took great pride in her treatment to make her as comfortable as possible until she passed on. Working with Hospice showed me the compassion that one stranger could have for another.

     I started attending college. I received a Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding. My life was turned upside down, once again, from the abuse I received from my spouse. The children and I ran one night. I was fortunate to have my parents take us all in. They urged me to continue on with my education. I, also, had friends at school who tole me that I could become a nurse and to just go for it. I never realized that I truly could. I was denied so much in my marriage, even freedom to think. I am not a victim and refuse to think of myself as one.  I continued on with my education and got my AA as well as the classes needed for emission into a Nursing School. What a joy it was to find out that I had landed a spot with Pacific Lutheran University. This was something I never thought could ever happen to me. I was going to be able to continue on with my education and make a life for myself and my family.

     Where am I today? I am finishing my second semester in the nursing program. After 4 years with someone who treats me with respect and loves me and my children, I am engaged. The Lord has looked out for me and my family. He knows what is best and even though I do some fighting with His decisions, I know that it will all turn out good. I just have to accept and have a sense of humor.

My love of nature leads me to explore and finding new adventures.