I am saddened that my hospital has been lost in Mayo’s power struggle.

I considered Naeve Hospital my second home and second family. In 1956, I started my nursing career at the Naeve Hospital School of Nursing and graduated in 1959.

I spent a total of 56 years inside those walls and am very proud of it. Caring for my community was very rewarding. In December 2013, I retired, but my friendships continue. Needless to say, I could have retired earlier, but I love my job, the people I worked with and the people of the community.

I think of my coworkers often as they are doing their very best and still struggle with what is happening to Naeve. The love and care will always stay with the staff.

The motto, “the patient comes first,” will always remain with me.

We as a community have to stand up and fight, and that is exactly what Save Our Hospital is doing!

A community that stands together will win!

Mary Carstens

Albert Lea