For 23 years, Bucky thrived in the dynamic and fast-paced world of the airline industry. “It was an exciting career that offered the opportunity to travel to places in the US and abroad,” Bucky reflects. But Bucky felt there was always something more he needed to do, a deeper sense of purpose that he couldn’t ignore. “There was always a feeling inside urging me to find a way to better help others.”
Bucky grew up in a large family of ten children, where the values of service and community were deeply ingrained. Four of his brothers served their country through military service, and two of those four went on to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), while another became a Registered Nurse (RN). His sister, too, dedicated her life to nursing. Witnessing their dedication and the impact they had on others, Bucky began to see a clear path for himself. “What a great way to give back to the community!” he shares. This family influence played a significant role in shaping his decision to pursue a career in healthcare. When the opportunity for an early retirement program presented itself, he seized it. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one that would lead him to becoming a pediatric nurse at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida.
At Nemours Children’s, Bucky’s role is more than a job; it’s a vital part of the mission to provide exceptional care for children. As a Circulator Nurse in the Operating Room, Bucky plays a crucial role in ensuring that every surgical procedure runs smoothly and safely. “My goal is to create a safe, positive environment for my patients and coworkers,” says Bucky. He also frequently precepts new nurses and those transitioning into the Operating Room, particularly in the Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) service, where he specializes. “So many of the nurses I’ve trained over the years have come to my assistance when I am working in a different specialty,” says Bucky.
Collaboration and teamwork are both a necessary and rewarding aspect of Bucky’s career. “Nemours is unique in the way surgeons, anesthesia personnel, nurses, scrub techs and the various other roles share the same locker room space and breakroom areas,” shares Bucky. “In most cases, we are on a first name basis. We are not only teammates, but in many cases friends. This type of camaraderie creates an environment that I look forward to working in each day.”
For Bucky, patient safety is the absolute priority, and he emphasizes the importance of clear, effective communication with both family members and the surgical team. “My impact on the lives of my patients, their families and my coworkers is at the forefront of my mind while in the OR,” says Bucky. “Patient safety is the number one priority followed by good communication with family members. In the OR good communication among the team is crucial, as well. Willingness to be a mentor to those new to the OR is also top of mind. I want to create a positive environment for all members of the team.”
Over the years, Bucky has amassed a series of career highlights and cherished memories. One of the most significant milestones in his career was being part of the team that successfully placed the first Inspire Implant for a patient with Down syndrome. This groundbreaking procedure, led by Dr. Santino Cervantes, marks a pivotal moment in the treatment of sleep apnea. Bucky is not only proud of the team’s achievement but also looks forward to participating in additional placements, continuing to make a difference in the lives of those he serves.
On a more personal note, one of Bucky’s favorite memories is a heartwarming moment that brought his professional and personal worlds together. His daughter, who was completing her Sonography program, had the opportunity to do rotations at Nemours. “A favorite memory of mine was getting to see my daughter dressed in scrubs,” shares Bucky. “At the end of one of her shifts, I was able to introduce her to some of my colleagues in the OR and give her a tour of my area.”
Bucky’s favorite aspect of his job is the diversity and unity of his team, all working toward a common goal. “Some of our patients come from difficult circumstances,” says Bucky. “I want them to feel like they are the most important person on the planet when in our care at Nemours. We may even refer to them as a princess or superhero. After all, haven’t we dreamed of being a superhero at some point?”
Through his dedication to patient safety, mentorship, and teamwork, Bucky continues to make a profound impact on the lives of his patients and colleagues alike. Nurses like Bucky are the heartbeat of healthcare, providing not just medical care, but compassion, comfort, and hope to those who need it most. Nurses like Bucky are the backbone of compassionate care, providing not just medical expertise, but comfort and kindness to those who need it most.
