Elizabeth Guntrum
April 2023
Elizabeth
Guntrum
,
RN
Mentor Seidman Cancer Center
UH Seidman Cancer Center
Mentor
,
OH
United States

 

 

 

Those little “breaks” in my chemo day where we can laugh with each other are priceless.

From my first infusion appointment with Elizabeth, she made me feel relaxed, comfortable, and educated about what was going to happen during chemo. She made it more than just what to expect during infusion. She talked about lifestyle changes that would need to be made and gave recommendations on how to implement that change. I can’t express enough what she did at my first appointment. The thoughtfulness to bring me into my own room, a space for just one patient was extraordinary. She lessened the distractions of a very busy unit so we could have a quiet conversation.

Once Chemo got started, Liz explained the medications that I was taking and warning signs I should notify her about. I have a port that was placed less than a week before my first chemo. I call Liz “Nurse Painless” when she accesses my port. Her technique makes it such an easy process.

My daughter accompanies me to my Chemo appointments. Liz always engages with us and whatever fun task we are doing. We have been working on a crossword puzzle which led to a review of the Greek Alphabet. I brought flash cards and as I quizzed my daughter, Liz played along. Those little “breaks” in my chemo day where we can laugh with each other are priceless.

I have had the privilege of watching how Liz interacts with her colleagues. She is very professional and you can see that she is well liked. She is considerate of others’ time and does not get frustrated if she does not have a “reader”. She is patient and kind. She takes the time with her patients.

One of my favorite parts of getting chemo is when Liz “garbs up” to hang the chemo. My daughter and I call it “The Show”. Liz plays along and unbeknownst to Liz, we are working on music to accompany her donning the garb!

When I come in for my blood draw on Tuesdays, I request her for my infusion nurse the next day. The last 2 weeks I went to request her, she had already scheduled me as her patient. I am so grateful for this angel who is such an amazing part of my cancer journey. She has done more than she knows for me (and my daughter)! I

want you to know, Liz not only has great clinical skill and leadership ability, but she is especially strong in patient care and compassion! Thank you, Liz, for all you do! You are truly appreciated!