I've been a patient here at UK since Feb. 2020. I am suffering from Stage IV oral/throat cancer. I have had my share of good times and bad. I had neck surgery, began chemo, and radiation. Unfortunately, last month was by far the worst of my life. I only had 4 radiation treatments remaining out of the 7 weeks. I became more ill than any time I can remember in my entire life. My son is taking care of me. I refused to attend my next appointment, along with several more. During a 6 day stretch, I only had two cups of water and 2 Jevity 1.5 shakes. I refused to get out of bed and had decided that death was better than all this suffering.
My son contacted my doctor who called me and made me promise to come in for some tests. He decided to send me to the Gill Heart Institute for Infusion therapy. I agreed to go but decided I would be as uncooperative as possible (such as pulling the IV out and letting it fill up a cup). My attitude was horrible. As I sat waiting my turn I heard the voice of an amazing person. He had the entire staff in a good mood in a matter of minutes. I thought that's who I want to treat me. Then I felt guilty over my poor attitude. With my head down I heard someone approach. Hearing that same voice, he asked me if I was ready to go on back. He had to draw blood and couldn't believe how dehydrated I was. We had to try a couple of times and he continually apologized. He managed to get it on the third try and it was totally painless. I told him no problem, I was used to the pain. I then told him my entire health history and problems and stated that I wanted to die, breaking down in tears. He quickly consoled me (genuinely) and told me some of his own history. He revealed things that he certainly did not have to, though he revealed no actual details. I was amazed.
Beds were scarce at the time but he advised that he would find me one, one way or another, or he would start a pump somewhere else until one became available. Of course, he found one in a matter of minutes. Now he was not my actual nurse but he continued to come in and check on me, making me promise I would show up again tomorrow. I had to go for three days. I followed all instructions and began to feel so much better. I actually hated to leave the last day.
This guy has a lot on his plate but comes to work with an incredible attitude. It has made a huge difference in me. I assure you all of one thing, this man SAVED MY LIFE!! It's that plain and simple. I knew there was something special about him when I first heard his voice. I hope he conquers his own health issues and problems and leads a long successful career. He is a credit to UK and the health industry in general.
If not for Mr. Nicholas Kerns, I would not be here today, at least not willingly. I wish I could inform you of all the little things he did for me (hot blankets, cups of ice, etc.). I guess he recognizes a person who is truly in need!! He turned my entire attitude around.