I'm writing on behalf of my boyfriend, who is a patient at the Sarcoma Center on Yawkey 6, to recognize Kimberly Shorey. We first met Kim on his first day of chemotherapy. We were so nervous that day, but Kim immediately calmed us both. Throughout the past 7 months of chemo (and radiation), Kim has helped both of us understand what to expect. I know that I am a better caregiver at home because of Kim's instruction: she's taught me how to apply and cover lidocaine to his port before we come in for infusion. She showed us how to administer his Neupogen injections, and she alerted his medical oncologist when his leg was swelling up after radiation so that he could get an ultrasound of the area to make sure he didn't have any blood clots. She's created a steady routine for us on infusion days, which has helped us feel more comfortable. Kim has helped us stay organized and prepared for his treatment and overall has made the entire process easier.
If someone had told me a year ago that we would be spending the majority of 2019 at a hospital, I never would have believed it. Coming to terms with his diagnosis and treatment wasn't easy, but Kim has helped make an unimaginably difficult situation so much better. In a world where we all want immediate solutions and quick fixes, Kim has helped us keep faith in the medical process. Kim has been more than a nurse for us, she's also been a therapist and friend. We are both so grateful for her hard work this year, she is a true DAISY Nurse.