Career Reflections: Chona Lane
May 9, 2024
Chona Lane, RN, has cared for patients at East Alabama Medical Center for 35 years. We recently spoke with her about her career and what being a part of East Alabama Health means to her.
A little bit about Chona:
I like praying, gathering for a bible study, taking people for a life changing trip to Israel and mission work at an Orphanage in Honduras and mostly time to be with my family
How long have you worked for East Alabama Health?
I've worked for EAMC for 35 years. I can't believe it's been that long. I feel like it's only been 15 years. Even after all those years I still love taking care of my patients. I have learned many valuable lessons from them about life. I would like to say thank you to all the patients and their families that have crossed my path. I am so grateful for the opportunity they've given me to serve them. The Lord surely has been good to give that to me.
What lead to you working here?
It really points back to my mother. She wanted all her children to grow up to do something to give back to the community in appreciation of living in America. She said I should go into nursing because I have good bedside manners. I didn't want to do that because I did not like to see blood. I graduated from Troy State University as a social worker and worked for DHR. I was young then and found that was for those who are more patient and good hearted than me. I decided to go to Nursing School without telling my mother. I wanted so much to surprise her! I could not have done it without the help of my husband Rick who took care of our 4 year old while I studied. I would hide my books under the bed when she would come and visit but then she got sick with cancer. I ended up telling her sooner than I had planned. Still, she was able to see her dream for me come true. My mother was right all along...nursing wasn't all about blood. It was more about caring and loving people.
What is one of your favorite memories working here?
The birth of my two children in this hospital and that one of them has become a nurse here at EAMC along with praying with patients and see supernatural healing.
Is there anyone you’ve worked with who’s made a lasting impact on your career/life?
There are those who still impact me: Carol Mills my charge nurse by her example of courage, humility and love for the Lord. Dr. Robert Ingram was ahead of his time by making us sign the old MAR's to make sure his patients got up and move around to prevent blood clots. Dr. Earle Fuller his technique needs to be copied. I have never seen him miss an IV stick while I worked in pre-op. In this 35 years I have seen the goodness of God for this hospital. It's been good for our community. I am so thankful for the privilege of working here with all these wonderful people.