Three years ago, our mother/mother-in-law was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Because both of us worked full-time, we were no longer able to keep her at home. We had been caring for her for over 6 months and were faced with that difficult decision of what to do. Prior to discharge from UNC REX, we were given the contact for the UNC REX Rehab in Apex and thus began a 3-year journey with the staff there. While there are many wonderful nurses there who cared for Mrs. D, MO is one of the nurses who cared for her regularly and demonstrated the compassionate care nurses are known for and extended that care to her family. From the moment he became one of her nurses, she (a nurse herself) developed a friendship with him and placed her confidence in him that he would take care of her when we could not be there. Not a day went by that when he was there and we happen to visit on his shift, he would keep us informed of her progress. What we thought was only going to be weeks of care at Apex, turned into almost 3 years of wonderful care. MO was a vital part of that care. He was always warm, friendly, uplifting and humorous. He was always professional and truly had a special place in his heart for her. He often would work an extra hour of the next shift and sometimes the whole next shift. He could recognize when she was in pain and would encourage her to let him give her something. He could get her to tell him things that she would not tell us because she didn't want to worry us. During those three years, she had several secondary illnesses and MO would be her advocate in letting the doctor or nurse practitioner know that something was just not right and needed to be checked out. He would joke with her and us and was always an encouragement. Near the end of July, Ms. D took a turn for the worse and all of the things we were told about 3 years ago were playing out in a very rapid fashion. MO was right there supporting her, us and keeping us informed. While no one can predict when those final moments are close, MO provided us with support, encouragement that he was on top of her pain and most of all he kept her comfortable.
He provided us with daily updates and helped us prepare for the loss we would feel. Because she was not able to verbally communicate the last week, he monitored, assessed and recognized when she needed pain medication and was prompt in his response to her needs. To watch him in action with her was a blessing to both of us. Ms. D frequently talked about MO and how well he took care of her and her roommate. He kept them laughing and through struggles like she experienced when she could no longer walk, she was uplifted and felt she was in good hands with MO on duty. She always missed him terribly when he took a vacation and said things were just "not quite the same" when he was not around. While we have not seen him since she passed, we think of him often and the support, encouragement, and professionalism he provided to her and to us and for that, we will be eternally grateful. MO is definitely deserving of being recognized as an Extraordinary Nurse who demonstrates compassion and passion for his patients and their families. He puts patients and families first and is awesome to have as a member of the REX family.
MO, please know you will always be in our hearts for the wonderful care you provided to Mother D. Your caring heart and compassion for what you do will never be forgotten.