I got very sick and was a patient for a week. I was scared and frightened that I would not recover. I missed my family as well as important events like my son’s birthday and middle school graduation. My husband and I had no local family, so he needed to juggle things at home, which meant I was frequently alone at the hospital. I was crying frequently and trying my best to understand how my health was being impacted. I felt like this group of nurses cared about my well-being.

In addition, they were competent. They tracked my medication and ensured it was delivered in a timely way. They helped find veins in my arms for IVs. They were kind and professional. They never acted like I was a burden or asking for too much. They helped me clean up before family was going to visit and tucked me in at night when I was cold and in too much pain to do it myself. They often brought me pillows and ice packets and helped me arrange the bed so I could rest despite my pain. I could tell that they were very busy but never felt like they forgot about me. I truly felt like I was in good hands.

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I can't recall more names off the top of my head. I came in for spinal fusion surgery, and that was absolute hell, but my nurses, nursing assistants, and occupational and physical therapists worked with me. Got me log rolling. They embedded in me No BLT (No Bending, Lifting, or Twisting), and it stuck. I'm log rolling and sitting up without damaging myself, thanks to the physical and psychological help I received from everyone. I left and had to return because of these God-awful blood clots, and now I'm walking and wiping myself. I couldn't see it. God bless you all. Everyone is so patient, and you all really got me back on my feet. Please note that this message is for every one of my helpers. Nurses are special, and I am beyond grateful.