Finding Strength Through Caring: My Journey as a Cardiac Nurse | Written by Erika Kelsch

Written by Erika Kelsch, RN

When I first entered nursing, I thought I understood what strength meant. I imagined it as the ability to handle long shifts, complex patients, and endless to-do lists. But over the years — especially working as a cardiac nurse — I’ve learned that true strength comes from something much deeper: compassion, presence, and perseverance in the face of joy and pain.

💓 The beginning of my nursing journey

My journey began with a simple desire: to help people heal. I graduated from Samuel Merritt University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and soon joined Sutter Medical Center in Sacramento, where I have worked as a cardiac care unit nurse since 2021.

He tested me every day and shaped me in ways I never expected. From assisting with critical cardiac interventions to sitting quietly with families in difficult moments, nursing has been a science and a sacred human connection.

🌿Lessons the heart taught me

Working with heart patients has taught me that healing is not just about the body. Often, it’s about helping people rediscover hope – whether that’s encouraging someone to take their first steps post-op or just holding their hand when words aren’t enough.

I have also learned the importance of self-care and compassion, not only for my patients but for myself. The energy we bring into the patient room is important. Our calm can slow their heartbeat, our confidence can build their confidence, and our kindness can ease their fear. This is a kind of medicine too.

💪 Grow through challenge

Nursing wasn’t always easy. There were moments of exhaustion, heartbreak, and self-doubt. But each experience has pushed me to become stronger, and show up with integrity and grace, even when things get tough.

Over time, I realized that resilience does not mean invulnerability. This means choosing to continue showing up – for yourself, for your patients, and for the purpose that called you here in the first place.

🌸 What inspires me

What keeps me going is the human side of healthcare – the smiles, the small victories, and the honor of watching lives change. I am constantly inspired by my colleagues and patients, reminders that love and care can make a real difference.

Whether I’m working with a post-surgical patient or advocating for better outcomes in our cardiac unit, my goal is always the same: to live with compassion, serve with purpose, and to inspire health, wholeness, and hope – in myself and in others.

About the author

Erika Kelsch, RN, is a cardiac nurse in Sacramento, California. She is passionate about compassionate care, personal growth, and inspiring resilience in others through storytelling and service.