After 14 months of being a patient of wound care, I was officially discharged today. I'm diabetic and had a severe infection in my foot. I had to have four operations over that time and an appointment every Thursday since the beginning. I met all different nurses but one I will be forever grateful to. Kim Reilly saved my life many times over. She was like all the nurses there - warm, compassionate, caring, and efficient, but went beyond that. She became my friend.
She could tell my mood by the look on my face. Kim knew exactly when I needed a hug, and she let me cry on her shoulder many many times. Not only was I suffering physically but mentally too. We started having talks and boy we had a lot of laughs too! There were quite a few times I didn't want to go on. I was sick and tired of being in a wheelchair and being hooked up 24/7 to the vacuum. She let me vent and rage and when I was done she would quietly talk to me until I calmed down. A big part of my recovery was getting that hug from her or pat on the back or pat on the arm. And Kim's big smile when she said: "see you next week; hang in there." And she gave me strength to go another seven days. I truly believe I am here today because of her. She will always have a special place in my heart. She deserves the DAISY Award.