Going through a quadruple bypass surgery is not fun.  I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.  But one of the blessings I received in going through this experience was the wonderful care I received from the nurses in this unit.  Let me mention one in particular.  This nurse is highly knowledgeable.  She was highly ready and able to explain to me what was going on in ways that I could understand.  This was especially important when I was grappling with what the various post-op procedures were and why they were being done to me, seeing as some of these things were very uncomfortable or even painful.  She was always available to come very quickly when I called to see to any of my needs.  She was always cheerful, encouraging, and comforting.  She was always patient with me, even when, especially on the first day or two following surgery, I was not always patient with her.  I was indeed miserable, and I conveyed that misery widely.  But somehow, my own Florence Nightingale kept up a cheerful disposition.  I am a Presbyterian minister who did not always manifest my faith nor show a peaceful demeanor.  From her Presbyterian background, this nurse was able to help me spiritually as I worked through my struggles.  I would add that it was comforting that she also showed great concern for my wife, who was quite exhausted at times.  She is a true DAISY Nurse. It’s an honor that she has earned.

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I cannot express how wonderful this nurse is!  She exhibited patience, understanding, compassion, professionalism, and deep concern, not only for my husband, but also for myself.  She was great at explaining things in terms that I could understand.  My husband had surgery.  He had issues of agitation and coded several times.  This nurse handled him with patience, care, and concern.  She always spoke to him calmly and sternly when needed.  Yes, he did need sternness at times.  She allowed me to help when needed, but was also great in telling me that he needed quietness which allowed me time to sit, reflect, and gather myself.  She encouraged me to leave the unit to have lunch and was so great in assuring me when I left for the evening that he would be well taken care of.  As you can imagine, this has been more than stressful for me as his wife and caregiver.  I so appreciate her compassion and care for us.  Northside Gwinnett is a better hospital because of her.  She is an exceptional nurse.  I can only pray that all of our nurses are this fantastic.  She deserves all the recognition and praise in the world.  She had made our experience fantastic.  It was great that she worked with him for several days.  I believe his progress is 80% her doing.  Yes, the doctors played their part, but it was her undivided attention, even missing lunch, that was integral in his recovery.  I know he has a long way to go, but this nurse has been the best support he or I could ask for.  I am more than excited to recommend her for the DAISY Award.  We will never forget this wonderful, humble, professional nurse.  She is a true blessing, and you are lucky to have her! 

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My sister was critical—the care and quick response of this nurse helped save my sister’s life and was instrumental in her being moved to a step-down unit.  She kept us informed of my sister’s improvement.  Her compassion was unparalleled!