Remarkable women leave a legacy of nursing excellence at Emerson

Emerson Hospital recently lost three retired nurses who served this great hospital.

Ruth Shuttle, 98, was the mother of nine, yes nine, and managed to work outside the home.

Alice Hardy, 93, worked on the pediatrics floor. Alice was the mother of three sons and worked tirelessly and was so dedicated. She volunteered in the emergency room after retirement.

And finally Joan Larsen. Joan worked, then volunteered after retirement. Joan organized a group on the behavioral health floor that was the most popular group on the unit. Joan was the mother of six and always gave wonderful nursing care.

All were wonderful nurses who gave it their all. They were excellent role models for younger nurses and gave excellent compassionate care to the patients.

Nurses often leave a quiet legacy, thousands of moments when they eased fear, helped families through crises, or simply treated patients with dignity.

These three women were all good friends, and all lived full lives. May they all rest in peace, and may their families know they made a difference.

Mary Lawlor, R.N.

Rainbow Avenue, Chelmsford