GUEST BLOG: Michael's path to purpose

In honour of Nurses Week and this year’s theme, The Power of Nurses, Conexus nurse and brand ambassador Michael Limliman shares his experience of being the only Filipino nurse in a busy ER in West Virginia, and how he’s learned that real strength in nursing is shown in the way you keep going and care for patients when it matters most.

Care Has No Accent: The Journey of the Only Filipino Nurse in the ER

While many nurses celebrate Nurses’ Week with potlucks, team photographs, and shared anecdotes, I often find myself standing quietly in the background, grateful but aware that my journey carries a unique weight. Being the only Filipino nurse in the Emergency Room of a medical center in West Virginia is both an honor and a challenge.

My initial days in the ER were overwhelming - the foreign monitors, unfamiliar protocols, and rapid, intense communication led me to question my abilities. There were moment when I wondered, "am I good enough to be here?" I hesitated to speak, I was fearful of making mistakes and I felt an urgent need to prove myself, not just as a nurse but as someone from a different country, a different world. 

But I also carried the resilience of my culture, the warmth of Filipino care, and the steadfast strength we are known for - enduring, adapting, and striving to give our best, regardless of the circumstances.

In the ER, everything moves at a rapid pace - decisions are made in seconds, and lives change in mere moments. There is little time to dwell on differences, yet they're always felt. The way I speak, the food I bring, the stories I share are small reminders of my distinct background. I missed hearing my language echoed in the hallways and I longed for the comfort of home. 

But amidst the uncertainty, I discovered a connection.

Dustin Hazelett, a fellow nurse and former MMA fighter, was among the first to welcome me. He imparted insights that resonated deeply, not only about the job but about mindset. He reminded me that strength is not solely rooted in skill; it lies in remaining grounded under pressure, trusting oneself, and pushing forward even when doubt looms.

Cory Hughart helped me to navigate the chaos of the ER. He guided me through the flow, the rhythm, and the unspoken norms of the department. He took the time to clarify my uncertainties, answer my questions, and support me during overwhelming moments. Thanks to him, the ER gradually transformed from an intimidating place into a familiar environment.

Throughout this journey, Conexus MedStaff stood by my side. They didn't just facilitate my arrival here; they remained with me every step of the way. They assisted me in navigating the complexities of adapting to a new healthcare system, ensuring I was not only prepared but also confident.

Whenever I faced doubts or questions, they responded with patience and reassurance. They checked in on me, not just as a nurse, but as a person adjusting to a new life far from home. Because of their unwavering support, I found my footing sooner and gained confidence more rapidly. Even during my most challenging moments, I never felt truly alone.

The uncertainty did not disappear overnight, but it began to soften. My voice grew stronger. My hands steadied. My confidence flourished. I started to trust myself!

Earning the trust of my colleagues was not an instantaneous achievement; it grew over time through consistency, preparedness, and remaining composed in critical situations. I learned to ask questions, embrace mistakes, and always prioritize my patients.

Then, a shift occurred. A patient holds my hand a moment longer and says, “thank you for taking care of me”, a coworker turns to me for assistance, a chaotic moment transforms into seamless teamwork. In those instances, differences fade. I was no longer just “the Filipino nurse"; I became a teammate, a resource, a nurse they could depend on.

And I realized something: I may be the only Filipino in the room, but I am not alone!

For at its core, nursing is universal. Compassion transcends nationality. Care has no accent. Dedication speaks louder than any difference.

If there is one lesson being Filipino has imparted to me, it is this: we do not back down - we rise!

This Nurses Week 2026, I celebrate not only the profession but also the journey. I reflect on where I stand today and the path I traversed, the fear, the doubt, and the courage it took to persevere.

To Dustin and Cory: thank you for your guidance, belief in me, and support throughout my growth.

To Conexus: thank you for accompanying me at every step of this journey.

To my fellow nurses: your story is significant. True success in nursing rarely comes from staying in your comfort zone. Whether transitioning to a new specialty, adapting to a different facility, or moving across the world, means being willing to embrace the unknown.

Although the learning curve can be daunting and the process may feel uncomfortable, these challenges are exactly what enhance your clinical intuition and resilience. Don't allow the fear of being "new" deter you; instead, embrace the challenges of change, for it is within these experiences that you evolve from a competent provider into an exceptional leader.

Happy Nurses Week!

— Michael Kim B. Limliman, A Proud Filipino ER Nurse