A very special moment

by J. Patrick Reilly

Some times one of life’s highlights  is too good not to share.

Last Thursday I was honored to accept a request from my oldest grandchild, Danielle Roh, to place her pin on her scrubs signifying she successfully completed training as an LPN.  It was a surprise to be asked and of course it was something I will always cherish.

It truly was special to pin my granddaughter as an LPN.  As we waited for the ceremony to start we practiced putting on the pin.  I didn’t want it to be a clumsy moment when we were on stage.

In that quiet moment, holding the pin between my fingers, I felt generations come together. 

I saw her hard work, long nights of studying, and the compassion that led her to choose nursing. 

I also felt the pride only a grandparent can know — the kind that swells in your chest and brings tears you don’t bother to hide. 

Placing that pin on her scrubs wasn’t just marking the end of her LPN training; it was welcoming her into a profession built on care, strength, and service. Her next step will be becoming an RN.

It was an honor to stand beside her, knowing she’s ready to make a difference in the lives of others, just as she’s already done in mine.