My mother was brought into the HFH with stroke symptoms. She is in her 90's but has a very sharp mind and communicates very well. Despite the serious nature of her condition, her biggest fear is not knowing or being told what her actual condition is, and being stuck with needles, bloodwork, IV's, etc. (very small, hard to find veins). From the beginning, Miriam made a special connection with my mother. She is a great listener, compassionate, and made sure my mother was well taken care of. She was also always available for any of the family's questions. I guess the best way to summarize her value and contribution to my mother's well-being is that I noticed that my mom's face lit up every time Miriam walked into the room. Even more so than when she saw me or my sister.
Miriam always communicated any important information regarding my mom to the family, as well as her physicians. This nurse's bedside manner and ability to keep my mom at ease, and actually smiling when she walked in the room was extraordinary. My sister actually commented that our mom looked better than when she was home. While I know all nurses work hard and are often under stress, Miriam was always pleasant, competent and a role model for any nurse or person.