My Mom, 77 years old, had just completed ten sessions of palliative radiation for head and neck cancer and was recuperating at my home here in Cincinnati (she lives in Columbus, Ohio). Four days after her last radiation treatment, she was found to be profoundly weak. After consulting with her radiation oncologist, it was determined that she should receive IV hydration via the emergency room. The registration at the Emergency Department was pleasant and effortless. After receiving 2 L of fluid with little improvement, she was admitted for further work up and observation.
The next day we were introduced to Nurse Amy Ernst. Amy's presence changed our lives. For those six days, Amy took impeccable, meticulous, clinically advanced care of my Mom as if she were here own. She addressed every single need of my Mom's in all aspects; physical, emotional, spiritual. She communicated so thoroughly whenever there was a shift change, knew when to page the doctor, and performed very astute bedside and clinical monitoring of my Mom's behavior, mental status and incoming lab values.
My Mom's interactions with Amy were filled with meaning and true loving care. At the time of her admission, we had no way of knowing that those six days would be the last of her life. But, to look back and reflect that my Mom spent those days under the wings of Amy and was cared for with such sincerity and commitment brings us great comfort. My Mom adored Amy and found a true friend in her.
One of my favorite memories of that time is when I'd returned to the hospital in a rush around 6 pm. I knew that Amy would be off by 5 pm and I didn't want my Mom to be without an advocate/representative. I walked in the room only to see my Mom and Amy shimmying their shoulders in unison. My Mom, terminally ill, unable to walk, lying in a hospital bed with an IV, was laughing and had her famous smile decorating her face. She was always young at heart and Amy really brought out the happiest parts of her spirit even when she was just days away from the end of her life. I came to find out that Amy was in fact off at 5 pm that day, but stopped in just to check on Mom. That time came out of her own pocket as I know she has quite a full life too as a working mother pursuing further education.
At one point, I asked my Mom if she was eager to go back home and she responded to me by saying: "Will I have to leave Amy here if I go home? I made a best friend in her." My Mom's home was her castle. This was the one and only time in my life I ever saw her hesitant at the thought of returning home. It still brings tears to my eyes. We were meant to be cared for by Amy. I strongly feel that.
There is no way we can repay Amy for the intangible gifts she gave us during a sacred period of transition. The least I can do is let you know that you have quite a powerhouse of a nurse and a person who is diligently fulfilling your mission one patient at a time just by being herself. We are eternally grateful for the magic and light she brought to us. She is such an asset to your establishment as well as to greater humanity. I certainly hope her service is duly and enthusiastically noted.
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Amy arrives to work already smiling. She has an exuberant personality that impacts all who come in contact with her. She is genuine and treats every patient as if they were her own mother, father or grandparent. Amy provides nursing care with sincerity and commitment which provides great comfort to her patients and families. She meets the needs of her patients in all aspects; physical, emotional and spiritual. Amy functions every day with the kindest heart and spirit. We have a new saying on the unit…. "Put on your Amy". She deserves great recognition.
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Amy has a great bedside manner. She took very good care of my husband in one of the worst situations he has been in his life. She is kind hearted and makes you feel like you left your loved one with family. She's a wonderful role model to others.