I'm ashamed to admit, but at one point during my worst painful moment, I was ready to give up and go home. I "threw a tantrum", but my nurse Mike talked me through it. He stayed by my side while contacting the doctor (multiple times) to do whatever it took to ease my pain and anxiety. He went above and beyond to see me through. During my frustration and anxiety, he remained professional, kind, and compassionate. By the end of his shift, I was feeling much better. He never once made me feel bad about "throwing my tantrum". He assured me that pain affects everyone differently. No apologies necessary. I'm glad I chose to stay. I am now pain-free and I know I stayed because of Mike. There is one stand out reason why Mike is a DAISY Nurse. Upon arrival, he asked my name and I said J or "J"- I go by either. Those who I have a connection with usually call me "J". He addressed me as J all through my care. Except at the very end when he was going off shift- I was starting to feel better the last thing he said was "I'm glad we got you feeling better 'J'". He may not even have realized he said it, but I did. And, to me, that is the true character of a nurse. He was not only kind, compassionate, professional, and patient, he LISTENED to me. From the very beginning until the very end, he didn't just hear me, he LISTENED. I am so very blessed that Mike was my nurse. The next day, feeling much better, sitting up, Mike showed up, on his day off, in his street clothes to see how I was doing. That is going above and beyond. He is a true asset to Meritus. Thank you.
Note: This is Mike's 2nd DAISY Award!