Evelina Escondo
March 2018
Evelina
Escondo
,
RN
Cypress Unit
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services
Grand Rapids
,
MI
United States

 

 

 

When I came to Pine Rest I was convinced that I didn't have a purpose and that nobody cared. A day or two after being here Evelina sat me down when she saw I was having a rough day. She made me feel loved and she made me feel like someone was there. She told me I have potential and that she knows I can do amazing things in my life. Ever since I talked to her, I have been driven to get better and to find potential within myself. Every time I see her, she brightens up my day. She makes me feel like I'm not crazy even when I thought I was completely losing myself. She is a very important person in my life.
***
My first day here in Cypress was terrible. I wasn't talking to anyone. I felt very alone but Evelina came and sat down with me. She tried different ways to make me smile. She wouldn't leave until I cracked a grin. Her presence is soothing. Just being around her makes everything feel better. When she comes to check up with me, she actually cares to listen. It was actually a conversation and not just plain and simple questions. Talking to her about my issue is easy and I don't feel anxious. I come from a family where hugs or just plain affection doesn't exist. She gives me the feeling of being wanted and cared for without even knowing it. She is like the sunshine in the unit.
***
Every time I have an encounter with Evelina my day immediately brightens. One specific moment I remember was playing Rummy (the card game) with her. She made jokes and made me laugh the whole entire time. She seriously helped me incredibly. Her bubbly caring personality brings joy into my heart. If I could adopt her as my second mom, I would in a heartbeat.
***
I was here back in September and I was very scared for it was my first time in a place like this. Evelina made my stay here super comfortable and safe. She checked in with me constantly and always called me by my name which made me feel important. I believe this is really important because coming here I felt super worthless and she would constantly bring me up and make me feel valued. Leaving the first time we shared a promise to not to come back here. Sadly, I was unable to continue after-care because of Medicaid issues and have since come back. When seeing Evelina she shared the same warm heart and attention as the first time in September. She was very positive and attentive to my needs. She is a perfect role model and everyone should follow her lead. I respect her so much and appreciate all her help. We promised the same promise again, only this time with "air pinkies".
***
Great nurse. Very invested in patient's well-being. Has a very good heart.
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She helped push me to go to groups and help me to stay positive.
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She jokes around with us. Helps me convey my feelings and she likes to have fun. She helps by caring.
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She is honest and has a great positive attitude and she is loving. Her skills are great and she seems like she loves what she does. She likes to have fun and laugh with others. She seems like she is collaborative.