Betsy Saunders:  

Life I grew up in Hales Corners, Wisconsin, in a big family with a large extended family. I worked at a local drugstore for a great boss while I was in high school. I left home immediately after graduation, and I worked two jobs just to keep a roof over my head. I was looking for an opportunity for challenge and adventure, not just paying my rent. I left Wisconsin shortly after high school (bye! see ya!) to join the military, serve my country while seeing the world and earning money to go to college. I first served on active duty in the Army Reserve, as a Clinical Specialist (advanced medic), then joined the US Navy, and served a total of 10 years. I had a variety of jobs from initially working on the wards, to running a clinic, serving in drug and alcohol prevention, administration, in the field, in the emergency room, and on an ambulance. I was fortunate enough to live and work in Europe and across the US, and very blessed to have taken care of, lived, or worked with some of the finest people in the world. I am still in contact with some of them today. I completed my first degree shortly after I exited the military, from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. It was hard to get a degree going to night school and with so many transfers, as this was before online and offsite schools were readily available. After I got out, I sold pharmaceuticals for a large company. After making great money but with little satisfaction, I returned to Wisconsin and went to nursing school and have worked as an RN since, primarily in ER and ICU, but I have worked or floated to many different areas both in and outside of the hospital. After living in both South Carolina and Colorado, I returned to Wisconsin to raise my son, a wonderful young man who is strong of heart and of character. I met and married Fred, the love of my life and my true companion. Although at times I've taken the road less traveled, what brings m...Expand for more