Mike Benson (center)
September 2014
Mike
Benson
,
RN
med/surg
Virtua Memorial Hospital
Mount Holly
,
NJ
United States

 

 

 

Mike was very attentive, ensuring I had everything I needed. He noted that my pain meds were not being very effective. After discussing this with me, he called the doctor to talk about changing something with them, which resulted in pain meds that allowed me to sleep much more comfortably during the night and operate more effectively during the day. Additionally, in the room next to mine, there was a 95 year old amputee World War II veteran. Like all old vets, he wanted to share his stories about his time in the army. Mike was very attentive listening, discussing and engaging with this "old timer". As a 4 time combat veteran myself, it brought me joy to see the time he took with this man. At 95, his time is nearing its end whether it be months or a few years. He doesn't have very long left with us. Mike's gesture may seem small to some, but he brought joy to that man's life that night. Mike clearly understands the human dimension of this job, that it is not learned in school. Kindness is a powerful medicine and Mike hands it out in large doses. He should be commended for his extra efforts. He is the perfect example of the right interpersonal skills to exercise this job.