Carrie was my nurse during only one of my recent admissions at SHHEC for my stage IV lung cancer, but I wish I could have had her as my nurse during my entire stay. When I was first diagnosed at SHHEC, of course, I was crushed, angry, confused, and sad. Many times, these emotions were aimed at the hospital staff for communication and scheduling errors. My family and I spent many days "in the dark" and never felt like we were given a straight answer about my diagnosis. Many days I felt like everyone else was hiding information from me, leaving me feeling helpless, frustrated, and afraid.
Carrie was the first nurse that gave me a straight answer about the type of cancer I had: adenocarcinoma. The way she shared the news with us was both professional and compassionate. After my family and I had grown a connection with her, she even chose to open up about her own terminal cancer diagnosis a few years ago that moved her to become a nurse today. Her timing was perfect, and it gave me one of my first feelings of hope. I hope she realizes just how much she is paying her blessing of remission forward.
As a nurse and former cancer patient, Carrie was wonderful at explaining things and anticipating my needs before I asked. She is a natural - it's like she was born to be a nurse and be my nurse during a time of uncertainty. My family and I hope that she stays in this beautiful area for a long time so that we can celebrate with her during the opening of my restaurant next year. SHEEC is extremely lucky to have a person like Carrie Marlin working for them.

Note: This is Carrie's 2nd DAISY Award!