My dad entered the ICU in February, and from that moment the exceptional care of all the ICU nurses started, but there was one who really came alongside our family with such care and compassion, it's hard to list all of the examples. When I think of nurses, I think of care and compassion. Over the years we have experienced many, but never have been blessed with one such as our angel, Andrea. From the 1st day, she talked and cared for my dad in a way that was like watching her care for her own loved one. She would gently lean in, make eye contact place her hand on his head, call him 'my love' and truly listen. No matter how many times she entered the room it was always the same care. She would check on us frequently and do her very best to explain 'Dr. Lingo" and keep us updated on what to expect and look for. Over the course of 2 weeks, while he was in the ICU, even if she wasn't his caregiver, she made a point of checking in to say hello and to love on my dad. She celebrated both the victories of coming through a very complicated surgery to the vent to later coming off, to being able to sit in a chair and eat again. Nothing seemed too small. But the stay doesn't end there.
In March we found out he had another hole in his stomach and he decided he was ready to go home. Hospice was brought in on the next day around 4 pm, Andrea was there every step of the way as they took the G tube out, replaced his oxygen and made him smile and laugh. As the evening came to a close and her shift started to end, she came in and stayed with us as my dad passed from this life on to heaven at 8:15 pm. She held us and loved on us and brought comfort only she could, knowing us so well. She is exceptional. No amount of schooling or money could teach what this truly gifted and talented young lady shares with the ICU world each and every shift! What a treasured gift she is to all who are under her care! She will always have a very special place in our hearts!