By Some see retirement as the end of their career. Others, like Bill Purvis and Sherrie Harris, saw it as an opportunity for growth and continued learning in a field that was meaningful to them—nursing.
Bill wrapped up his 30-year career in retail management during the COVID-19 pandemic and saw an opening to pursue his lifelong dream. He said, “The first job that I had in my late teens was in the healthcare field working with fellow caregivers, and taking care of the needs of patients brought me great satisfaction.”
Sherrie was also interested in healthcare, having
Both non-traditional students started their journeys at Lorain County Community College and received support from Colleen Donato, a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD). Colleen is a part of Ohio College2Careers, a partnership between OOD and Ohio colleges and universities.
Individuals in retirement often live on fixed incomes, and this was a barrier that OOD could help address through financial support. Bill said, “They helped me pay for tuition, books, supplies for courses, work uniforms, and fuel. This assistance enabled me to focus completely on my studies!”
Bill also faced test anxiety as a barrier to continued education, while Sherrie dealt with Attention-Deficit/
Sherrie said, “Although some may refer to ADHD, anxiety, and depression as disabilities, I have come to refer to them as superpowers that strengthened my resilience, sharpened my determination, and helped shape me into the person I am.”
Colleen Donato from OOD was impressed by Bill and Sherrie’s resiliency. “Their courage to do this later in life really demonstrates their character.” Colleen explained, “They had to study, drive all over town for classes and clinicals, AND work. Bill and Sherrie sacrificed a lot to pursue careers that will bring them joy and purpose.”
Bill is currently a registered nurse at the Cleveland Clinic, working in a medical-surgical-orthopedic unit. As for his future career, he said, “Now that I have achieved my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the opportunities are quite extensive as there are many options that are available to me.”
Sherrie is working at University Hospitals (UH) in Cleveland, handling inpatient registration. She is looking to transition into a nursing role and to continue exploring growth opportunities at UH.
Sherrie shared, “Perhaps one of the greatest sources of support throughout this journey has been OOD.”
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