As a Pediatric Nurse and Nurse Educator through my forty-year career, I provided compassionate care to others, treating them as I would want to be cared for. I always took my health seriously going for annual exams, eating well, and exercising. I lost my husband seven years ago and moved from Chicago to be with my daughter and grandchildren. My healthcare was at Northwestern in Chicago, after careful research I found an excellent internal medicine physician at Grayslake. I went for an annual mammogram this May at another medical center and was shocked to hear a diagnosis over the phone that I need to return for a biopsy because of possible cancer. I contacted my doctor to refer me to the cancer specialists at Lake Forest Hospital and she recommended a doctor. I thank the Lord for this referral that saved my life. While trying to comprehend this shock, make appointments for further testing, surgery, and treatment following, I was grateful for the comprehensive care I received. I was referred to Grayslake for chemotherapy which was a closer distance than Lake Forest.
I was anxious about chemotherapy having witnessed the devastating effects it can have. My first four sessions were Achromycin/Doxurubicin also known as "Red Devil". Caitlin was assigned to be my nurse and I abundantly appreciate her. From the moment I met her, she and I formed a strong patient/nurse bond. She treated me as a patient not as a nurse having knowledge of chemo. She patiently and compassionately explained each step of the chemo process from the pre-medications to the actual chemo infusion. She made sure to answer questions I had and each was answered respectfully and kindly all the while acknowledging my feelings of fear and anxiety. She would check to see how I was doing and offered fluids, warm blankets, and nutrition. When I would come in for the next treatment she always asked how I tolerated the last treatment. She made sure I received an anti-anxiety pre-medication and her compassionate care made it easier for me. She was always positive, supportive, and kind. We celebrated each treatment with a hug and a countdown. After the fourth treatment, I developed a low blood count and needed to receive a blood transfusion and two iron infusions. Caitlin went to the scheduler and assured scheduling for the transfusion as soon as possible that week, which took some negotiation because of the distance I have to drive and how weak I felt. Caitlin is a true champion for her patients. She did this for me not once but several times. I had my last chemo in December and was grateful for the staff, led by Caitlin to ring the gold bell to signify the last treatment. I have been truly blessed to have Caitlin as my nurse for this daunting process, but with her expertise, compassion, kindness, and caring for patients, I was able to experience excellent patient care.