My mother came in to have a meningioma removed. She was transferred to the fifth floor the next day. Throughout her stay, my mother developed GI complications and vomited for days. Although she had many competent caregivers, Steven became more than just a nurse, but a source of strength not only for my mom but for our entire family as well.
When he came on shift, he always made his presence known by giving an initial check-in and making additional stops outside of his routine rounds. When all my mother could do was moan, Steven would gently touch her feet or hands and speak soft words of encouragement. Steven would even get close to her to understand her wishes as my mom became so weak, she could barely speak louder than a whisper. When Mom's pain meds became limited because she was unable to tolerate them, Steven kept the ice packs coming as this was often her only comfort. He often voiced that he wished he could do more to take away Mom's pain. He watched as my dad stayed night after night, feeling helpless. He provided comfort to my dad as well when my sister and I were unavailable.
We did not see an end but know God is forever faithful. What was supposed to be a few days turned into almost two weeks. We are so thankful that it was a part of God's divine plan to have Steven play a role in Mom's healing process. We will be forever grateful for Steven's skills as a nurse but more importantly his compassionate and kind heart that cannot be acquired from a book. Thanks for your patience and unwavering devotion to your profession. Mom is finally scheduled to leave tomorrow, and Steven will always have a place in our hearts.