Ibrahim Khalil Aba Al-Khail
May 2024
Ibrahim Khalil
Aba Al-Khail
,
RN
Medical-Surgical Unit
King Hussein Cancer Center
Amman
Jordan

 

 

 

"You're doing great," he said softly. Together, we walked the short distance to the window. When I finally stood before it, the sunlight shined on my face, and seeing the outside view made me feel peaceful, which I hadn't felt in days. Tears came to my eyes, but they were tears of relief. Ibrahim stood beside me, "See? You're stronger than you know."
In September 2023, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, which brought unexpected challenges to both my personal and professional life. Over the past few months, I have been undergoing treatment at the King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC). I want to express my gratitude to all the KHCC staff for their exceptional professionalism. I am writing to convey my deep appreciation and to nominate Nurse "Ibrahim" for the DAISY Award, recognizing his extraordinary nursing care. He stood out with unparalleled dedication and compassion; his remarkable personality shines through in his daily work.

In a quiet room on the 5th floor of the hospital's Medical-Surgical unit, I had found my sanctuary. After my surgery, I was so anxious and depressed that I couldn't leave my room. I avoided contact with anyone, decreased visits from friends and family members, and refused to step outside my door. The idea of going outside my room felt impossible.

But there was Nurse "Ibrahim," with his bright voice, genuine smile, and boundless compassion, eager to help me get my life back. Every day, he entered my room with a happy hello, bringing positivity and hope. Ibrahim didn't just see me as a patient; he treated me as a member of his own family. His kindness and patience started breaking down the walls I had put up around myself.

At first, I didn't say much, just short and careful replies. But Ibrahim never gave up. He engaged me in short conversations and sharing stories. "You know, A," Ibrahim would often say, "There's a beautiful outside view." I would look at the window, but still afraid to leave my room. But Ibrahim's constant support and positive words started to give me hope.

Days later, and still, Ibrahim's commitment remained unwavering. He continued to provide excellent follow-up, offer required support, empathize with my concerns, promptly address any inquiries or questions, and speak to me with words of encouragement. "You are stronger than you think, A. Every day is a step forward. And all of us are here with you, every step of the way."

One particular day, I finally felt a shift within myself. Ibrahim entered my room as usual, his smile as warm as ever. He encouraged me to take small steps to the window. I looked at him, seeing the genuine care in his eyes. I said, "Yes." With Ibrahim's steady hand supporting me, I rose from my bed. It felt like a huge effort, but Ibrahim's encouraging words gave me strength. "You're doing great," he said softly. Together, we walked the short distance to the window. When I finally stood before it, the sunlight shined on my face, and seeing the outside view made me feel peaceful, which I hadn't felt in days. Tears came to my eyes, but they were tears of relief. Ibrahim stood beside me, "See? You're stronger than you know."

From that day forward, my healing continued. Each day, I took more steps, both physically and emotionally. Ibrahim, always an outstanding nurse, stood by me and comforted me through the difficult times. Eventually, I began to leave my room more frequently, rediscovering the world around me and reconnecting with my loved ones, family members, and friends. As I prepared for my discharge, I looked at Ibrahim with deep gratitude.

As I was discharged from the hospital, I carried with me the lessons of courage and hope that Nurse Ibrahim had brought during those difficult and challenging times. Thank you, Ibrahim. You helped me find my strength again. I couldn't have done it without you. His exemplary care had not only healed my body but also my spirit, reminding me of the beauty of life and the power of compassion.

No words can adequately describe Ibrahim's exceptional work and the profound impact he has on my life. He deserves to be recognized with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.