I would like to share a personal experience involving Carol Crowder. While I have known and worked with Carol for many years,I was in a completely different role recently wearing the family/friend shoes of the OR experience. I need to first set the stage a little bit. In a matter of a 10 day time span, my husband was given medical bad news, my mother was very ill and I spent 5 days here with her and my dearest friends were calling concerned about a change in her husband. I was more than overwhelmed, when I finally caught my breath and spoke to them I told them to please come to the ER it sounded like he may be having a stroke (better to be safe) and I would meet them there.

Just when you think you can't take anymore, believe me it still comes! Chief had an immediate CT scan. Without going into too much detail,the CT showed tumors,his greatest fear. Things just seem to go from bad to worse for him and his family. After surgery was discussed I promised him he would not be alone. I went to Carol and explained the situation and asked her if she would mind if I held his hand until he was asleep. Without hesitation Carol asked what she could do and would make sure things were ready so I could go back to the OR with him and hold his hand. While I am very proud of the entire OR staff, Carol touched my heart in an indescribable way that day. I was crying and my mask was slipping down, she gently reached over and tightened it for me so I didn't have to let go of Chief's hand as he was sobbing in fear. After he was asleep tears rolled down my eyes and Carol looked at me and with a very comforting voice let me know she was there. Carol treated me like a beloved family member and not the Executive director and I will be forever grateful.