I was admitted to the 9th floor on Monday for monitoring for the administration of a new medication (Solatol). After undergoing a TEE in the ACD unit/clinic, I was transferred to the 9th floor to begin the new medication regime and await the replacement of my AICD device (battery was getting low). My nurse was my day nurse for the first 2 days and from the moment my caregiver and I met him he put us at ease.

Benjamin seemed to recognize my high level of anxiety, which only increased once learning I was going to be an in-patient longer than originally expected. I was also pending the replacement of my AICD (battery going out), which he took the time to educate me on the specifics of the procedure and my device (I thought it was just a defibrillator and he took time to check and verify that it was also a pacing device). He made sure that we understood the full scope of my condition, the upcoming treatment and the care that was to be given and how he and the other members of the staff were here to support me and ensure as positive an outcome as possible.

As a patient there are things that I did not occur to me, but he utilized his expertise and proactively took the time to explain, them in a way that I could understand which closed many gaps in my care that I did not realize existed. I want you and especially Ben to know that his knowledge, professionalism, and deep caring for me (his patient) has made me so very appreciative and thankful for all the ways (big and small) he acknowledged/validated my feeling/concerns. He took excellent care of me in all the ways that matter, physically, mentally, and spiritually.

My nurse is an example of what Caregiving should be all about. I know that he has had an enormous part in my recovery and overall well-being. Thank you so much! appreciate you and all you do!!!