They say laughter is the best medicine. Patricia Chiquet puts the theory into practice.

"I never thought a $99 bunny suit would make so many people smile," says Chiquet, a 43-year old veteran nurse.

In an article in the Lafourche Parish Daily Comet, Chiquet describes how she has taken to booking appearances at schools, day-care centers and nursing homes, inspired by a desire to bring some happiness to her husband, recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Besides visits to the sick and the elderly, she hopes to raise money for multiple sclerosis as well. Chiquet has been so happy with the response, she intends to expand her activities past the Easter holiday, even if it necessitates a costume change.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare and social assistance—including nursing—will grow by 25.4 percent and add 4 million new jobs through the year 2016 as the population ages and life expectancy increases. The BLS predicts that more than 3 out of every 10 jobs over that time will be created in the social assistance, health care or public and private educational services sectors.