Elizabeth "Libby" Collyer
February 2024
Elizabeth "Libby"
Collyer
,
RN
Float Pool
Roudebush VA Medical Center
Indianapolis
,
IN
United States

 

 

 

Libby asked me if I thought I was strong enough to walk. I was not 100% certain, but I told her I thought I could. With Libby’s encouragement, my confidence soared, and I became determined to walk.
I remember when I first met Libby it was during the night shift. I was half asleep and half awake when I suddenly realized she was in the room. She smiled and said, "My name is Libby, and I am going to be your nurse this evening." Her personality seemed to exude warmth, joy, and positivity, which proved to be extremely contagious. I told Libby that I wished I could walk. Libby asked me if I thought I was strong enough to walk. I was not 100% certain, but I told her I thought I could. With Libby’s encouragement, my confidence soared, and I became determined to walk. Libby procured a walker, fastened a restraining belt around my waist, and assisted me in walking around the ICU ward as the Medical Staff on duty were singing and cheering me on. What a sense of accomplishment; I could not have done it without Libby. Libby’s Integrity and the uprightness of her character are beyond reproach. Libby’s Commitment to her job and the welfare of her patients was executed with a sense of total dedication. Libby made little unscheduled visits to ask how you are doing and if there is anything you need and to give words of encouragement. Libby wholeheartedly Advocated and Supported the mission of the VA Medical Center, which is to provide health and welfare for the Military Service members. Libby’s loyalty, however, was not due to some written mission statement but what she sincerely felt in her heart. Libby’s respect and regard for others was evident in the way she related to people. She was always considerate and courteous. You got the sense that this was how she related to everyone, yet she had the ability to make you seem special. Libby demonstrates Excellence in all phases of her profession. Excellence is demonstrating the ability and proficiency that exceeds that of the majority. She is professional and proficient in job performance. She is sincerely dedicated to the total welfare of the patient, physically, mentally, and emotionally. She also shows a willingness to go above and beyond what is expected. I will always be eternally grateful to Ms. Elizabeth. Not only did she enhance my health, but she also enhanced my life. I will never forget Libby.