The nights leading up to my procedure, I met Jackie. I was in very poor health and what approached me that week terrified me. As a young 20-year-old, I didn't envision losing my entire organ over the holidays. Jackie came into my room and I will never forget the forever impact she created. She empathized with me, listened to my story, and gave me hope during a very traumatic, difficult, and crucial time in my life. I never felt more understood in my life. What made a lasting impression was when she showed me her scars. She got through a similar adversity with a story to encourage those who are hurting.
A compassionate nurse makes one feel heard and cared for—ultimately leading towards a healthier recovery—and I know Jackie embodies just that. Every night that she was my nurse during that stay, she shared the hope that it WOULD get better. She left me with resources to help me in my healing journey and reminded me that, "When I am weak, then I am strong."
During my hospital stay following my second procedure this week, Jackie cared for me again. Those nights, I had a peace because I experienced someone who advocated for me when I did not have the strength to. Someone who put their patients at top priority. Someone who was patient. Someone who so skillfully responded with swiftness to my medical needs. As I experienced an allergic reaction to a certain medication one night, Jackie was quick to respond to the call light, page the doctor, and get the medications needed to help my sick body. I am blessed and honored to have Jackie take care of me during my time at University of Chicago Medicine. You have made a lasting impact on my recovery as I conquer this disease!