I entered the ER with severe pain. By the next day, I was moved to the ICU and placed in the care of RN Sam Aldrich. Hospital staff worked diligently to diagnose me, and it was determined that I would need to be placed on a ventilator. My spouse never left my side during this difficult time. I was transported to a different campus for an emergency procedure, which likely saved my life.

Four days after I came into the ER, I was off the ventilator, but I remained in the ICU. Unbeknownst to us, Sam had requested to work at the other campus's ICU to continue caring for me. My spouse was overjoyed to see Sam. I have little to no memory of the difficult time I endured over these several days. Later, while recovering, my spouse helped me understand everything I had been through. My spouse spoke very highly of Sam and how she worked diligently to orchestrate my care. My spouse explained how passionate Sam was about her profession and how she knew something was severely wrong and never stopped advocating for me. Sam was kind, caring, compassionate, professional, and trustworthy.

In a time of uncertainty for me, I believed in Sam and told her I would do anything she needed of me as a patient. My spouse and I spoke further. We believe Sam was an integral part of saving my life. In a time when our family had to depend on others to make critical decisions for me, we felt confident in everything Sam did. In the nearly two weeks I spent at UnityPoint, I had contact with many excellent professionals, but RN Sam Aldrich is truly unique and special. Please recognize Sam for her dedication and relentless pursuit of answers for her patients and their families.