I had had a particularly difficult day, it was then that Matthew Verdicchio knocked on the door. I expected the door to immediately open and to have one more person enter the room. He did not enter the room. He knocked on the door again. I invited him to come in. He came in, introduced himself and explained that he would be working with me that night. He proceeded to explain what had to be done and why, and asked me for a time when I would like him to return to do the procedures. I replied that he should do what he had to do to me at his convenience. He assured me that it would be done at my convenience. I remarked that I did not want to be a burden for him and that I did not want to bother him. He replied that this was his job, that he loved his job, and that he had become a nurse to help people. He said that helping me was his pleasure.
I realized that I was dealing with a different type of nurse. Although all the nurses had been polite, professional, and friendly, they had simply gone through the scripted motions required of them. This nurse had realized that he was dealing with a person who happened to be a patient in his charge. We arranged for a time where he could change the dressing and begin my evening infusion.
I was struck by the love, compassion, and effort that Matt had consistently exhibited in helping me.
Matt's shift ended. He stopped by my room to say goodbye and to wish me well. I was very touched by the gesture. Imagine my surprise and delight when Matt returned several hours later, now wearing street clothes, to visit me, to check up on me, and to say goodbye again! I remarked that he had not slept and that I was surprised that he had returned. He told me that he could sleep any time; however, he could not see me again any time... Before leaving, I stole one more hug from Matt; a hug that he returned freely. Matt's selflessness, love, and compassion for me, and his enthusiasm for the nursing profession are unique and exemplary and merit recognition.
It is abundantly clear to me that Matt possesses all the attributes desired in professional nurses and that he deserves to be recognized for his passion for nursing and the care he provides to his fortunate patients; his empathy for the patients and their individual situations; the trust, respect, admiration, and teamwork he inspires in his patients, their families, and in his peers; the admirable and unique attributes he possesses and shares; for his love for patients and the nursing profession; and for his humanity and utter selflessness.