I first met Joann in late 2019 after I underwent cancer surgery that left me with a permanent colostomy. She was helpful then, but where she really shined was in July this year, following a recurrence of my cancer, which left me with a urostomy.
I was having ongoing problems with my pouch unexpectedly leaking. This was very distressing at a time when I was already dealing with the stresses of recovering from major surgery. Joann worked patiently with me and developed a solution. It was literally a game-changer during a very difficult time in my life.
She has also assisted me and my wife with wound care after the doctors removed the Wound VAC which had been in place since my surgery. This left me with a large open wound that needs dressing changes daily.
Joann taught my wife how to dress the wound. This was a daunting task for her, but Joann was able to walk her through the process and give her the confidence she needed to take over this task.
I see Joann on a regular basis, and she has always been patient, kind, and generous with her time. She has a can-do attitude which is contagious and reassuring for us when facing what feels like daunting medical tasks. She has given me something that is sometimes lacking in my life these days: optimism.
My wife and I believe that Joann is a true DAISY Nurse. She is both competent and personable, and the high quality of care she has provided to me reflects very positively on VCU Health.