September 2023
Sandra
McElroy
,
RN
Home Based Primary Care
Minneapolis VA Health Care System
Minneapolis
,
MN
United States
I cried the entire time walking to the ER, and Sandy walked with me, providing comfort by letting me lean on her for support.
I was coming to the VA for a lab appointment and on my way, the electrophysiology clinic called because my heart rate was up extremely high the night before. I stopped by after my lab appointment and was directed to have my pacemaker interrogated. The nurse assisting me, Sandy, made mention that it was probably normal, but I informed her I knew the reason why my heart rate was so high. I mixed medications despite the bottle saying not to do this. I didn't know what would happen, but didn't particularly care either way. As soon as I told her, she immediately came by my side while I was crying. She told me she was so sorry I felt that way and assured me she would get me some help before I left the VA. She used Teams to contact my therapist and when she didn't answer, she called her on the phone. My therapist wanted me to go to the ER, but I didn't want to. I talked to my therapist and agreed to go down because Sandy said she would go with me. She made me feel like my life was a top concern and that she wanted me to be well. I cried the entire time walking to the ER, and Sandy walked with me, providing comfort by letting me lean on her for support. The ER was contacted by my therapist beforehand, so they were expecting me. There was a line, but they were able to take me straight back after doing my vitals. Sandy stayed with me the entire time until I went back into the ER; this made me truly feel like she cared about me, and if it wasn't for her, I might not even be here today. She jumped into action as soon as I told her that I was serious about trying to end my life and showed legitimate concern. She gave me her extension, and when I was admitted to the hospital, I called to give her an update and she even said she would try to come to check on me! It didn't end up working out that way, but I still call her periodically for status updates. This simple action meant everything to me, it helped me get my life back on track, and it was all because of Sandy going above the call of duty to help. Thank you!!