I had been hospitalized for 9 days at UPHS Portage before being transferred to UPHS Marquette for a percutaneous drain placement. I was having an extremely difficult time being in the hospital - physically, emotionally, and mentally for several reasons. I had only been hospitalized to have a baby over 20 years ago, so this was foreign to me. I was already dealing with post-op issues from a previous surgery, and my mobility was limited due to complications with my foot. I was having significant pain due to acute diverticulitis with bowel perforation and subsequent abscess. I felt helpless and like I had no control over any aspect of my situation.

I am a nurse and was not used to being on "the other side" as a patient and was feeling vulnerable and scared to death that I would end up in emergency bowel surgery. And, scared now being in a hospital where I did not know any of the staff, and my family was no longer a 15-minute drive away.

Megan was my day shift nurse for two days. When Megan assumed care of me, there was still uncertainty as to whether IR would be placing the drain that day or not. Megan's calming presence eased some of my fears about the uncertainty and the procedure itself. After the drain was placed (that day), I had an unexpected increase in pain in the inguinal region below the drain site, causing painful movement of my leg, compromising my mobility more than it already was. This was distressing and caused more anxiety for me.

Megan was incredibly attentive, listened to my concerns, and seemed to know what I needed (medically and emotionally) without my asking. She was also so cognizant of every aspect of my care - right down to the simplest detail of making sure the Kleenex box was always within my reach.

Megan provided such mindful, supportive, and thoughtful care. When I have been asked about my stay at UPHS Marquette, my reply is always, "I had the most extraordinary nurses". I feel like they were the catalyst to my healing. And for that, I will always be grateful. Thank you.