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Katie (O’Donnell) Whitt ‘08 is several years removed from her time spent at St. Mary’s High School. Yet, the words of her junior theology teacher, Michael Dillon, still guide her each day. Whitt said that Dillon challenged the members of her class to be the light in a world filled with darkness and pain. It is a statement that she reflects on, especially during times of uncertainty as she serves as a critical care ICU nurse in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

“Mr. Dillon said, ‘The world is full of darkness, pain, and a lot of crap. How can YOU be a light in this dark world? The world is full of darkness: be the light,’” Whitt said. “During these stressful and uncertain times in our country and the world, I try to focus on what I can control and ask myself a few questions each day: What can I do to be a light to others? What can I do to stay positive? How can I best serve my patients, family, and friends today? Reminding myself to focus on what I can control, and leaving the rest in God’s hands, is reassuring for me.”


Read more about Katie on our blog.