After a week's stay at Sanford Hospital, our Father required home health care. He was discharged on Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving, this past November. Sandy Vogel, who was assigned to my Father, contacted us before leaving the hospital stating that she would be doing a visitation/evaluation on Thursday, Thanksgiving Day. We declined, stating that Thanksgiving was a family day and she should enjoy her family. We scheduled for early AM on Friday following. She demonstrated a dedication to her patient and job. Very impressive. She came Friday AM at the agreed to time. My Father was somewhat apprehensive and unsure of himself after his weeklong stay in the hospital. After a brief time, Sandy had my Father feeling quite relaxed and more confident in him. He was worried about the taking of his meds at the right time and in the correct dosages. She very patiently explained how he was to do it and that she would work with him until he felt comfortable. As we kept in touch with Dad over the next several days his confidence grew. Sandy's teaching my Father in different methods and guiding him through those steps was outstanding.

It was during this period of time that Sandy noticed that some Dad's medications required some changes. She contacted his doctor, only to learn that he was on vacation. The doctor that was filling in for Dad's doctor was slow in responding to Sandy. As a result, Dad ended up back in the hospital where he stayed for another week. Upon his discharge his only concern was that he wouldn't get Sandy back as his home health nurse. When she walked into his apartment he was one happy camper. I also explained to Sandy that we as a family knew she had done everything that she could to prevent Dad from having to go back into the hospital. We supported her entirely.

To us as a family she really demonstrated how she watches over and protects her patients. It also shows how she helps to improve the level of health; and one who cares for another's body, mind and spirit. So caring. Since the above has taken place, our Father was moved to Edgewood Vista. In April he passed away. Prior to that moment my Father spoke very highly of Sandy and the excellent care she provided. She was there fighting for what was best for my Father's health and welfare. In looking at the professional practice roles of a nurse, Sandy didn't just practice them, she lived them.

Sanford Home Health should feel very fortunate and privileged that they have a nurse such as Sandy. She is a credit to her gender and her profession. For us as a family we remember Sanford Home Health not because of Sanford Health. We remember Sanford Home Health because of the dedication, commitment, knowledge, and love as demonstrated by Sandy Vogel.