A Piece of My Heart

by Shirley Lauro
based on the book by Keith Walker

May 2-5, 2002
Maintenance Shop, Memorial Union

When a person thinks of Vietnam, they almost always think of the medic's role in it. Whether as soldiers in the jungle or veterans suffering from PSTD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), our thoughts are invariably drawn to them. But what of the women who served? Why hasn't the public seen them the way they have seen men? Is this due to their low number compared to men, or do we not see them as veterans? The image most people see when they think of a nurse from that era is of someone who is completely detached, merely taking notes as they walk past the beds. Maybe adjusting an IV or dressing a wound from time to time. This is a false image. Who could look at a eighteen year old boy whose been blown to pieces laying on a stretcher and not be affected? The answer is no one, not even a nurse.