My brother was a patient on the Neuro ICU due to an acute subdural hematoma, and he received exemplary care from Jessica Augeri, RN. My brother has profound autism and significant issues with communication. As is often typical of individuals with autism, he has very definite preferences about what he will and will not eat. When I explained that he liked creamy foods like pudding, jello, and ice cream, and that he liked sandwiches more than the meal tray food, Jessica went to neighboring units to find protein shakes, fruit popsicles, juices, pudding, jello, a sandwich tray, and a whole array of options to serve him. My brother was much calmer and happier once he had eaten foods that were comforting and familiar.

Jessica truly went above and beyond to understand the unique needs of my “forever young” brother. In every single interaction with our family, she communicated with clarity and kindness. She made phone calls to ensure his MRI was scheduled to help expedite our discharge because I’m sure she recognized that hospital stays are extra challenging for individuals with special needs who are away from familiar routines. Jessica exemplifies the very finest attributes of a nurse by demonstrating clinical expertise combined with compassion. Wellstar is truly fortunate to have Jessica practicing as a nurse in the Neuro ICU unit.