Making a Difference in Children’s Lives
When I’m asked “What do you like about nursing” I respond with “it’s having the opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life.”
Cecilia Auth, RN
When I’m asked “What do you like about nursing” I respond with “it’s having the opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life.”
My passion in caring for medically fragile children and supporting their families has been incredibly rewarding. Pediatric patients, or as I refer to them as (mighty little warriors), inspire me daily through their resiliency and loving hearts. During my nursing career I have worked in various medical settings. As a new nurse, I started in the NICU and absolutely loved and enjoyed all aspects that nursing care.
As my family grew, I began working in a specialty pediatric feeding therapy program at a pediatric rehabilitation medical center. It was here that I broadened my nursing skills by providing resources and educational information directly to families. Many of the patients, due to their medical condition, required a feeding tube to support the delivery of their vital nutrition and medication. I often encountered a challenge in accessing their feeding tube while they were wearing a standard bodysuit (onesie). The need to undress and interrupt their sleep was very disruptive and did not allow for a therapeutic outcome. Upon connecting with other medical caregivers and parents, I learned this was a universal problem. That’s when Tubesies was born!
As nurses, we want to see our patients heal, grow, and thrive. When designing a functional medical garment, like Tubesies, I wanted it to be simple yet practical. One of the unique features of Tubesies is a window-like flap that opens directly over a child’s feeding tube, minimizing disruption while providing care. There is a waterproof pocket that can hold a clean 2x2 gauze pad to absorb any leakage.
Upon launching Tubesies, I’ve received amazing testimonials from nurses and parents that found accessing their child’s feeding tube more therapeutic with minimal disruptions. When a child is comfortable and happy, they are more likely to receive their treatment of care in a more positive way. Therefore, saving time for what matters most… cuddles!
During the developing stages of Tubesies, I networked with other small businesses that had already developed children’s products. I found this to be a critical part in my journey of starting a small business. It has been my experience that many entrepreneurs are open to supporting each other by sharing their resources.
Revisiting and writing out my “WHY” reason behind developing a product and starting my small business, was key in helping me get through the ups and downs of business. My passion in making a difference in children’s lives is what fuels me in growing my business. I’m so grateful for the support of my friends, family and the “tubie” community. Throughout my journey as a nurse entrepreneur, I have been inspired to connect with families and other medical professionals. It’s become an extension of my pediatric nursing care.
Motivational tip: Be open to a new path in your career, you never know where your passion may lead!
Much success,
Cecilia Auth, RN
www.tubesies.com
May 2022
