Researcher Finds Peace at Duke

Name: Carmen Lucaveche Years of Service: 30 Position: Laboratory Research Analyst II Department: Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center

Thirty years ago, Carmen Lucaveche traveled from the far reaches of South America to escape the civil strife in her country and establish a new and better life at Duke.

Lucaveche's first visit to the United States was in 1966 when her employer, the University of Chile, sent her to Harvard University for training in the use of electron microscopy in the laboratory of Dr. J. David Robertson, who was about to accept a new position as chair of the department of anatomy at Duke University Medical Center. 

"Dr. Robertson was surprised to hear that I would be returning to Chile following my studies," Lucaveche said.  "Chile was my home, and I wanted to go back. Of course, he understood my position but told me if I ever decided to come back to work in the United States to let him know because there could be a place for me at Duke."

Lucaveche was thankful for his offer but could not foresee at that time any reason she would leave Chile.  But in the fall of 1973, Chile's government was overthrown by a military coup, and Lucaveche was forced to make a decision to live under the dictatorship she despised or leave the homeland and job she loved. 

"I never dreamed that after only a few years, I would be writing to Dr. Robertson and asking for his help," Lucaveche said.  "Shortly after I sent my letter, I received a reply from Dr. Michael Reedy offering me a position at Duke University Medical Center and I have been working in his lab every since."

Making the difficult decision to leave loved ones behind, Lucaveche found refuge in her move to Durham.

"When I moved to Durham, it was truly a blessing.  It was so peaceful compared to the devastation I left behind in Santiago," she said.  "I could walk down the streets and no one would bother me. The sound of military helicopters hovering overhead was no longer something I needed to fear."  

After 30 years, she now considers Duke and Durham her home.  "After years of being in transition, going back and forth between Durham and Santiago, I feel very fortunate to be where I am today.  Coming to work each day is a pleasure for me, and I am truly grateful for everyone who helped me get here."