I've been through several hospital stays and medical procedures in the past two years and I've experienced some of the best and the worst treatment from medical professionals along the way. When someone goes above and beyond to care for a patient during some of the most stressful and frightening times in their lives, they need to be recognized. I would like to commend and nominate Dianne Stapp for the DAISY Award.
Two years ago, I had a total knee replacement on the right, and it did not go well. I have been in pain and unable to walk well since that surgery. Dr. K thought if I had the left replaced, it might help with mobility and the pain level. As you can imagine, I was quite concerned about taking such a chance and repeating such a disappointing major surgery which yielded such poor results. It was very daunting to head into the operating room again.
When I began to regain consciousness after the surgery, I was in extreme pain. Dianne was right by my side, trying various option to lower my pain and talking through my surgery with me. She held my hand and told me how brave I was to attempt the left surgery. She had been through two knee replacements herself, so she was tremendously empathetic. She was taking care of several patients coming through recovery, but she kept returning to me, talking me through everything and reassuring me that I would come through this surgery much better.
Dianne's extra attention and kindness made such a difference on a day I had been dreading. She encouraged me and let me know I was not alone in the haze coming out of the surgery. I have no family in the area, so her gentle touch and words of strength were such a gift. She went above and beyond to care for an apprehensive patient.
Thank you Dianne for going the extra mile and showing that extra care when I needed it. God bless all nurses and a special blessing on those who extend a much needed human touch.