Neelam Shrestha's words of wisdom and amazingly positive presence were exactly what I needed! I truly felt cared for and open to tell her anything. She is the example nurses should strive for. Such love.
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Neelam was the first person I was in contact with from UW. We spoke over the phone and she helped me understand what to expect upon arrival. Although we didn't have much patient/nurse contact after the first day, she always went out of her way to speak with me and generally encourage my recovery. Even on the nights she wasn't my nurse, she went out of her way to visit me in my room and tried her best to improve my mood and wished me good thoughts. Thank you very much, Neelam, for going out of your way and working with me.
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What Neelam has that stands out: Always smiling. Very personable. Caretaker spirit, a motherly spirit like a nun. Very friendly. Respectful. Soft voice. She is filled with loving kindness. Her husband is very, very lucky to have Neelam in his life.
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After arriving at UW, I was extremely depressed, helpless and had no will left to live. Neelam provided much needed emotional support through her gentle and caring ways. Her wisdom and resources were helpful at rising above the depression. Even when she wasn't my assigned nurse, she took the time to seek me out to see how I was doing and quiz me on what I had learned. Her mantra with me was "Never Give Up" and as I headed home with a fresh start, I will always remember Neelam's voice as we shared "Never Give Up" with each other. Neelam goes out of her way for her patients and cares for each one.
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Neelam flowed into my life like a soothing warm blanket on my heart. Though the words I write are few, know if I could show you the impact she made on my heart you would stand in amazement.
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I came into hospital devoid of hope, will to live, and direction in my life. Within moments of seeing her again, (I was hospitalized years earlier) I was nearly dancing with joy. Her love, support, kindness, empathy, and generosity of spirit knew no boundaries. Furthermore, she seemed to understand the alcoholism I have been recovering from for approximately 26 years. She somehow restored my "will to live" in short order, relative to time spent feeling hopeless. This, in my mind, is truly remarkable and extraordinary.
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Neelam was an excellent morning nurse. She made sure I always took my morning meds on time which helped keep track of time. She always greeted me with a smile and wouldn't leave the room unless she knew for sure that I was okay. I really appreciate the work she did for me and wish her continued success.
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Neelam showed genuine interest in who I am as a person and avoided bringing up difficult topics and focused on just normal topics.

Note: This is Neelam's 2nd DAISY Award!