I was walking past a room in the Emergency Department; I noted Monie Johnson, RN, BSN at the bedside of a deceased child. The family was distraught. The dad was on the floor beside the stretcher cradling his small son in his arms, crying desperately, praying and chanting, all at the same time. The mother was at the head of the stretcher and was no doubt in a state of shock as she knelt by her son sobbing in disbelief that this had happened to her baby. Other family members were there, however they, too were in disbelief. Monie, being the only healthcare professional in the room at the time, was doing everything to comfort, be of support and provide for their needs.
Monie was like an angel sent from heaven to be with this family. I have never been more impressed or better yet, blessed, than I was today as I stood at the bedside of grieving parents and watched a dear friend and coworker provide comfort and direction for the family. Monie showed so much compassion, love and understanding as I looked at her face. I knew that Monie's heart was breaking, yet she maintained a calm caring demeanor.
Monie is truly a nurse extraordinaire, one truly ordained for the nursing profession by God. I do not have words to say what I saw in Monie that day, however ETMC is so fortunate for her to be a part of the team and I am blessed to have her as a friend and coworker.