I arrived to the neuromodulation clinic, as I do every two weeks, in dire need of my infusion. The reason for the urgency was that a month before, I had experienced the biggest ever verbal fight with my one and only brother. The incident sparked a desire to do the unthinkable, something I was sure I had finally overcome, but that ideation, I found out, could be triggered once again. Thanks to my service dog I did not act on the wish to end it all. Needless to say, my mood and self-worth were in the negative numbers while I waited to be called back to the clinic. Emily came out and called my name, I got up and followed her to the clinic for a temperature check and on to my room. Emily noticed that I was not "my usual happy self" and she asked me what was wrong. I told her about the fight I had with my brother not leaving out any details. I noticed that Emily's eyes filled with tears, her voice broke slightly and it was obvious to me that she felt more than compassion for me. I've had enough of these infusions to know the routine pretty well. During the whole assessment/documentation phase prior to the infusion, 2 to 4 different nurses and techs or students will take part in asking you assessment questions or performing skills, but today Emily took it upon herself to do all the care herself.

I'm a retired critical care flight paramedic so I know a thing or two about patient care and bedside manner. Emily went above and beyond VA patient care protocols and made me feel as if I was a family member and she was going to make sure everything about today's infusion was perfect. During the infusion I sensed her presence by my bedside, I know I was crying due to the amazing sensations hurling through my body and my mind, plus the immense level of care and compassion Emily showed me gave me the feeling that someone truly cared and that I would be able to overcome the pain caused by my brother.

Emily's compassion did not stop with just the infusion. On two different occasions that I've run into her at the VA, Emily has come up to me and with that same level of compassion will inquire about how I am doing showing me that she truly cares about my wellbeing.