I was admitted in the morning with what turned out to be a ruptured appendix and severe peritonitis and then overlapping C-Def. This combination and the lingering effects of the laparoscopic surgery came to a head several days later in the evening when Badia was my nurse for the night. She was initially responsive to my deteriorating situation and did not just follow the medical instructions but sought to understand that this was an evolving crisis.

She was responsive and caring and tried to understand what was going on and what could be done. By about midnight, I had started to shiver uncontrollably. Adding five blankets did not stop it. I was becoming uncontrollable. Badia did not panic or become afraid or unresponsive. She remained in control of the situation. She alternated between helping me with talking to the doctors and requesting another nurse to help. She remained in control and continued to deal with the situation. Through medication and remaining with me, she was able to get me back into control and stable.

In following Badia's efforts to provide me the best possible care it was clear my surgeon Dr. M holds Badia in the highest regard. He listened to what she had to say about my situation and treatment and thinks of her as a true medical partner. Not only listening to her but proceeding to order the tests she had recommended.

I work in conflict zones for the State Department and have been in dangerous and stressful situations. Badia would have been the type of person you wanted to have with you to deal with the inevitable wounds encountered in these kinds of situations. I have been evacuated by Navy Seal teams and would put her with the competency and fearlessness of any Seal I have known.

Badia is empathetic, strong, capable, and resourceful—the perfect medical person for a stressful, difficult medical situation. She has my highest regard, and I hope you acknowledge the asset she is for Kaiser.