Hello, everyone! My name is Elodie Degage, and I am a Second Lieutenant in the Army Nurse Corps. My journey from an equestrian enthusiast to a military nurse has been an incredible adventure, filled with lessons that have shaped my approach to healthcare. Today, I want to share how my diverse interests, particularly my passion for equestrian sports, have contributed to a holistic approach to nursing and patient care.

The Equestrian Beginning

Growing up, I was deeply passionate about horses and equestrian sports. From an early age, I spent countless hours at the stables, learning everything I could about riding, horse care, and the intricate bond between rider and horse. This passion taught me valuable life skills, such as discipline, patience, and empathy, which have been instrumental in my nursing career.

Discipline and Commitment

Equestrian sports demand a high level of discipline and commitment. Daily training, meticulous care for the horses, and consistent practice were all part of my routine. This dedication instilled in me a strong work ethic and the ability to stick to a regimen—traits that are essential in the field of nursing. In healthcare, discipline translates into adhering to medical protocols, maintaining a clean and organized workspace, and committing to continuous learning to provide the best patient care.

Patience and Understanding

Working with horses requires a great deal of patience and understanding. Horses are intuitive animals that respond to the rider’s emotions and actions. Learning to communicate effectively with them taught me the importance of patience and empathy. These qualities are incredibly valuable in nursing, where understanding and addressing patients’ emotional and physical needs are paramount. The ability to remain patient and empathetic, even in high-stress situations, has greatly enhanced my ability to provide compassionate care.

Transitioning to Nursing

My transition from equestrian sports to nursing might seem unconventional, but the skills and lessons I learned from my equestrian background have been surprisingly applicable to my nursing career.

Physical and Mental Resilience

Riding and caring for horses is physically demanding and requires a high level of resilience. Long hours at the stables, lifting heavy equipment, and handling unpredictable situations with horses built my physical stamina and mental toughness. These attributes are crucial in nursing, where long shifts, physical labor, and the need to stay calm under pressure are part of the daily routine. My background in equestrian sports prepared me to handle the physical and emotional demands of a nursing career.

Attention to Detail

Success in equestrian sports often hinges on attention to detail—whether it’s ensuring the proper fit of tack or monitoring a horse’s health closely. This meticulousness has carried over into my nursing practice. In healthcare, attention to detail is vital for tasks such as administering medication, monitoring patient vitals, and maintaining accurate medical records. The ability to notice and address small details can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Embracing a Holistic Approach

My diverse interests have not only equipped me with valuable skills but also shaped my perspective on healthcare. A holistic approach considers the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—rather than just treating specific symptoms or illnesses.

Integrating Mind and Body

Equestrian sports emphasize the connection between the rider’s mind and body, which is a concept I apply to patient care. Recognizing the interplay between mental and physical health allows me to provide more comprehensive care. For instance, I understand that a patient’s mental state can affect their physical recovery, and vice versa. This holistic view enables me to address both aspects, promoting overall well-being.

Stress Management and Mindfulness

Spending time with horses taught me the importance of mindfulness and stress management. The calm and focus required to ride effectively helped me develop techniques to manage stress, which I now use in my nursing practice. Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises and meditation, helps me stay centered and reduces stress, benefiting both me and my patients.

Building Trust and Relationships

The bond between a rider and their horse is built on trust and mutual respect. This experience has reinforced the importance of building strong, trusting relationships with my patients. Establishing trust through open communication, active listening, and empathy fosters a supportive environment where patients feel valued and understood. This trust is crucial for effective patient care and recovery.

Lifelong Learning and Adaptability

Equestrian sports require continuous learning and adaptability—whether it’s mastering new riding techniques or understanding advances in equine care. This mindset has carried over into my nursing career, where ongoing education and adaptability are essential. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest medical knowledge and practices ensures I provide the best care possible.

Conclusion

My journey from an equestrian enthusiast to an Army nurse has been shaped by diverse interests and experiences. The discipline, patience, resilience, and attention to detail I developed through equestrian sports have been invaluable in my nursing career. Embracing a holistic approach to healthcare, which considers the whole person, allows me to provide compassionate and comprehensive care to my patients.

I hope my story inspires others to recognize the value of diverse interests and how they can shape a unique and holistic approach to their careers. Whether in healthcare or any other field, the skills and lessons learned from different passions can provide a well-rounded perspective that enhances professional and personal growth.

Thank you for reading, and take care!

Warm regards,

Elodie Degage