COLUMBUS, Ohio — Tuesday, March 22 marked the first time Mount Carmel College of Nursing student Katerini Soisson and Hellen Corder, a Columbus resident, met in person.
But the two have spent countless hours on the phone working on a legacy project: A book that's the culmination of the valuable bonding time.
“It was wonderful. I loved talking with her every Tuesday. I looked forward to getting home and getting ready for my 6:00 call with her,” said Corder.
The "Legacy Book" covers Corder's childhood, adult years of raising three children with her husband Richard in Indiana before relocating to Columbus after his passing.
“It was important to me to see something about my life on paper that I could pass to my children and grandchildren,” said Corder.
The 77-year-old, who still holds down a 40-hour work week, said she also shared some pieces of advice that helped her through the years.
“Treat people the way you want to be treated. Always be kind. Always love,” said Corder.
“How kind she is — I took that energy, and she just treats everyone with kindness. And the fact that she's still working and you have not stopped, so it's very admirable,” said Soisson.
Soisson said she graduates in May and one day hopes to work as a nurse in the Navy nurse corp.
Corder said she can't wait to share these treasured memories with her grandkids and extended family.
"That they will learn my life, from what grandma and mom went through and make their life better, and to be able to be out here and help the world like I wanted to.”
The Legacy Book is a collaboration between Mount Carmel School of Nursing and nonprofit MediGold.