October 2021
Leanne
Small
,
RN
Glenfield Hospital
University Hospitals of Leicester
Leicester
United Kingdom
She promoted an environment with a true sense of healing, kindness, and understanding.
Over the past year, COVID-19 has brought a new meaning to the word ‘compassion’. As a nurse, I know how challenging it can be to care for another nurse, as a patient. I have nominated Leanne for this award to thank her for her extraordinary care, during a sad and difficult time for me. Five months after contracting the virus I am still experiencing symptoms of Long COVID. Adjusting is some days easier than others, and Leanne has been an important part of this change. As part of my care in the Long COVID Clinic, Leanne made my initial assessment of need. I was approached with an incredible sense of conscientiousness. She promoted an environment with a true sense of healing, kindness, and understanding. Her empathic responses created a space for me to be vulnerable - where I could make the transition from nurse to patient, and where I could accept, reset, and begin to move forwards differently. Leanne, you are a role model for compassionate nursing care, and will never be able to thank you enough for your kindness.