Audrey Cunningham, RN, BSN

Recently I had surgery which was to correct a surgical error. What should have been a 45-minute operation took a total 360-degree turn and I ended up in the hospital for a month. I know I was rushed to the ER, and I was in and out of sleep the little I remember included a nurse holding my hand assuring me that they are doing everything they can to help me. I ended up leaving the ER in a stable condition that evening which gave me some level of comfort. Unfortunately things escalated and I had to return to the ER. In this moment, I was extremely terrified with thoughts running wild.

Hoping for a miracle during that time, God sent me many great nurses but Nurse Audrey took me under her wings since that time straight until discharge. She was dedicated, caring, and extremely patient. I was so weak and while I understand she was doing her job, I could sense way more genuine and actual care in the way she handled me. I could always put on a smile when she came into the room. She was keen on my hygiene which I was extremely grateful for. Despite her many other duties, she never took it over in the room. I was cared for in the best way possible and this made me feel safe and secure. Even my family noticed her warmness and gravitated to her despite all that uncertainty behind it.

Nurse Audrey aka "Mommy" Audrey would work with me and prepare my mind that I will be ok and out of the hospital. I admire the way she's committed to her job. She's always on the go. I just had to tell her she moves like an energizer bunny. Never in a million years had I thought I would have ended up in the hospital, especially in the state I was in, but as critical.