108. “Child Who Takes Care of Baby Birds” Still Healing After 35 Years

Janet can’t remember ever not wanting to be a vet. In elementary school, when someone found a baby bird on the playground, a teacher came to her classroom to find her because everyone knew her as “the person who takes care of baby birds.” “That was my first experience of getting a referral,” she recalls fondly.

College was never a given, but when her elder sister won scholarships to Rutgers, she promised that Janet would go, too. Feeling the odds stacked against her—money, sexism, academics—she dropped out after a year. Months later, she realized nothing else would make her happy. Returning to college, she never looked back.

Pursuing her dream despite the barriers, Janet declares, “I learn something new every day.” Recently adding skills in ultra-sound imaging and alternative therapies, she is committed to provide care for companion animals and their humans, regardless of patients’ ability to pay. “I love life and life has loved me back.”

www.vin.com/ – Veterinary Information Network, a large online community for veterinarians. Includes vet finder, forums, membership, consultants, and contact information.