I want to let you know about an amazing RN you have here on the BUMCP campus. I am a nurse and have been for the last 46 years. I find myself going through a new diagnosis of cancer. Nurses often find it hard to step out of the role of a nurse and into the role of a patient, and I am no exception.

To date, I have completed radiation therapy along with oral chemo. I began the next journey of IV Chemo, which will continue for the next 5 ½ months. During my first chemo visit to the infusion center, Melissa introduced herself to both my husband and me. She answered all of our questions and told us what we could expect as my treatments progressed. Melissa was very reassuring, supportive, and professional. Not too long into treatment, Melissa noticed that I was having to blow my nose. I didn’t think anything about it, but Melissa asked if this had come on suddenly. While I laughed it off, Melissa kept a close eye on me and when I started to have more side effects from the chemo, she reassured me that she had already notified the pharmacist and the medication I needed to combat the side effects would be available within a few minutes.

Melissa remained calm and totally had everything under control, which made me feel safe and well cared for. While the day was long and very taxing, I always felt that Melissa knew exactly what was happening and what needed to be done. Melissa made me feel that I was important to her even though she had other patients for whom she was caring. I know as a nurse how important you are to your patients and to have that level of confidence made all the difference to both my husband and myself.

Melissa worked extremely hard during this busy shift without one word of complaint. At the end of the day, after she had hooked me up to the infusion pump that I would go home on, Melissa asked us again if we had any questions or concerns. Just before we were about to leave, Melissa thanked both myself and my husband for allowing her to look after us that day.

As a house supervisor at BUMCP, I see the great things that happen each and every day between our staff. But I have to say, I was blown away by the care, compassion, and positivity that Melissa showed us. Melissa shows what it means to truly be one of Banner’s best employees. So far through my journey, all of the staff at MD Anderson Cancer Center have been great, but I wanted to take the time to acknowledge Melissa as going above and beyond. I know with people like her on my side I can make it through this health issue and come out on the other side. Thanks, Melissa, for being there for us.