I need to bring it to your attention an act of selfless generosity by Cathy. Recently, patient registration called because there was a woman sitting in the waiting room asking if there was any way she could get some food to eat because she hadn't eaten for several days. She had told the registrar that her fiancé was a patient. She was asked to return to the unit where her fiancé was so she could talk with the nurse.
When meeting with the woman and the patient it was clear from the start that these people were not seeking resources that they did not need. They were gracious, and kind and her only request was some food because she had not eaten in several days. Both she and her boyfriend come from Crown Point and he went for a follow-up visit for his foot, here in Plattsburgh, at which time it was discovered to be infected and the doctor sent him directly to the hospital. They had no transportation, and they were dropped off at the hospital. They have little means, no financial resources, and their only help is from family an hour away. The woman clearly has medical issues of her own and in conversation, she mentioned she's very hungry and doesn't have any clothes to change into and hasn't bathed since last week. Her fiancé who is our patient was clearly getting very concerned about her.
After being provided with some food, the team leader started calling around to see if there were any resources, we could help this woman with. The team leader was directed to Cathy on another unit who told the team leader to find out what this ladies' clothing size was and they would take care of it. A co-worker informed me that Cathy was doing this out of her own pocket and I spoke with her but she insisted that she still would get this woman some clothing. People went to Wal-Mart and between a few staff members, they purchased this woman some clothing. As I understand it this is not the first time that Cathy has done this for patients or patients' family members. I had to tell you this story because it really inspires me and speaks to the wonderful people who work here and I know that this woman and her fiancé were so grateful. They could have easily been judged and not been given compassion.
This nurse is compassionate, a wonderful advocate, and selfless. This nurse really owns their work and goes beyond "Patients First."