I was unfortunately injured while assisting with a patient fall and that day changed my life forever. I had herniated a disc in my neck and needed surgery. I, unfortunately, had complications and dislodged my new titanium disc. I ended up having emergency surgery for an ACDF and was soon readmitted with severe nausea and bowel complications from pain meds and anesthesia.

My hospital experience has been very humbling. I realize now more than ever how much of a difference nurses make. Jody has been a blessing during my recovery. I have never felt so vulnerable in my life. When I was admitted the hospital was full and I shared a room. I can’t begin to explain how it is to have an enema at 27 by a fellow colleague with only a curtain separating me from my roommate and her visitor. I felt embarrassed, humiliated, and like I had lost all dignity. Jody made me feel as comfortable as one could in my situation. She advocated for me to have a private room and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.

Over my stay, Jody and I became a team. She shared in my success and struggles. She cares for me when I was at my lowest point in life and gave me hope. She made me feel comfortable and gave me courage. There is so much I learned from her about what it means to be a nurse. I have hope that one day I will be back nursing and I will be asking myself “what would Jody do?” Jody is one of a kind and so deserving of this award. I hope she reads this and knows what a blessing she has been to me, and I’m sure all of her patients. I can honestly say I looked forward to the days she was going to be my nurse, especially during a time when my family couldn’t be at my side. I can’t thank Jody enough.