No first-time mom expects to be back in the hospital for 21 days recovering from emergency abdominal surgery resulting from a serious infection, just two days after giving birth. The emotional and physical toll is indescribable. However, my terrifying and trying experience was made insurmountably better by the expert care and emotional support so lovingly provide by my nurse, Ive.
Ive was the first person to greet me in my room upon returning from surgery. She was there to encourage me, coach me, care for me and guide me through the recovery process. In the time of my most intense pain, Ive was there to provide appropriate and swift medical care. She carefully tended to my many incisions and even went so far as to reach out to the wound care specialist nurse to ensure that I was able to heal quickly and in the best manner possible. Ive took the time to carefully explain all procedures, answer my ceaseless questions and calm my nerves. She did this all with a comforting smile on her face and an unyielding positive attitude, even when tears streamed down my face and all my hope seemed to be lost. In a situation where I had so many doctors' visits and invasive exams and procedures done that I felt all my humility was lost, Ive made me feel dignified and like a human, rather than some random patient or symptom that needed to be treated.
Ive's dedication to my overall well being went beyond the scope of her regular duties as on two separate occasions she took the time to visit me on her scheduled days off. There is no doubt in my mind- or that of my family- that Ive is a key reason that I was able to make it through this most difficult of times and go home to my new baby and family. I will forever be indebted to Ive and forever grateful for her selfless service.