Chrissie Boatman came in for her emergency department (ED) shift expecting the usual stream of critical and urgent patients. But this particular assignment was different. She was assigned to administer blood and platelets to a patient who was battling leukemia and lymphoma. This is not the typical type of patient seen in the ED, but with no beds available upstairs, the patient opted to stay there for her transfusions.
The patient wrote a 2 ½ page letter of appreciation, stating that Chrissie "went above and beyond". Chrissie had an inpatient bed brought from upstairs, ordered a hot meal from the café, and made certain that she was comfortable. The patient admitted that she was anxious and Chrissie took the time to pull up a chair and sit with her until she fell asleep.
The patient was initially disappointed about not being able to go upstairs but stated, "the stay in the ED ended up being a blessing". Chrissie made a positive impact on her and the patient left feeling grateful.
We know that exceptional healthcare is more than medicine. This is a wonderful example of the Power of Presence. Chrissie took a few minutes to be present for the patient and those few moments were an opportunity for her to show God's healing presence.
Thank you, Chrissie, for living our mission!