Elsie Ekabten, ADN-BBA

As a nurse myself, I understand how important compassion can be. We encounter people in their worst times and can be the light to get them through. Being on the other end is scary and humbling. I always thought I understood how to be compassionate, but a nurse named Elsie Ekabten taught me so much more. The moment this young lady entered my room, I could feel her smile as she introduced herself. She did her job by explaining everything to me and involving me in my care. But that wasn’t it. She wanted to know me not just as a patient but as a person. She wanted to put my fears at ease and answer my questions until I felt comfortable.

When Elsie knew my medical situation, she went beyond and asked me what I’d be doing had I not been hospitalized. I proceeded to share with her my love for animals. She engaged me in the same interest. We talked like two friends. No longer a nurse and patient talking medical but putting me at ease by talking about something I loved and genuinely cared. They say people don’t always remember what you say, but they will always remember how you made them feel. Elsie will always be in my memory as someone who took the time to care. Sounds so simple, but with all the demands on nurses, it can be difficult; she gave her time to ease my experience, and for that I’m forever grateful.