My first night at KFRC was a bit chaotic. I was in a room that was not the best fit for my health. It was understandable now that the proper explanation of the facility would come in the morning. However, that first night when it was revealed my bed had an alarm, I was under the impression I couldn't leave my bed for 2 weeks except for attending 3 hours of physical therapy each day. Feeling trapped and isolated, my nerves started to rattle. I told myself I would give it one day, but basically I made up my mind to leave and go home against doctor orders.

During his rounds, a night manager noticed my discomfort and to his credit, moved me to a quieter side of the wing. The gentleman checked upon my well-being and helped me get settled in. At least I survived the first night.

The next morning I, woke up grumpy and ready to leave immediately. After lying in bed for half an hour feeling like I let my family and myself down, a woman entered the room with an angelic voice while introducing herself as my new nurse. "Good morning Mr. Makki, my name is Shawn and I'll be your attending nurse today." As she proceeded to open the curtains, sunlight illuminated the room and brought in the hope for a new day. She took the time to explain once I was transported to my wheelchair, I could freely access my room. In fact, Shawn shared there was a family room, lounge, and outdoor patio for patients to wander around if they wanted to get out of the room and get fresh air.

Shawn gracefully and patiently helped me unpack my belongings, cut my breakfast since I was injured, and cared for me in a way a mother would care for her own child. I was blessed enough to have Shawn as my attending nurse the first 3 days of my 12 days stay. Every time she entered my room, Shawn's presence radiated with positive energy and her smile shined through her face mask showing through her cheeks and eyes. She worked diligently every day, checking my schedule of physical therapy classes, making sure my meals were on time and properly served, assisting me to the restroom in a safe manner and encouraging me to take care of my own personal needs such as brushing my teeth and combing my hair as much as my illness would allow.

Most of all, Shawn was adamant about me taking my medication on time and personally wheeling to my physical therapy classes which is why I was there in the first place. Anyone can show up to work. Then there are those who take joy and pleasure in providing an extraordinary service to a person who is hurting, possibly lonely, and in great need. Having visited four different Presidential facilities across the country during my educational career, I know Shawn has all the qualification, patience, and talent to be a nurse at the White House. This is an employee that has tremendous value and is extraordinarily.