Takeila Arrington demonstrates compassion and caring. When I was unexpectedly admitted to Adventist Glen Oaks Hospital, I was nearly 1000 miles away from my home. As you can imagine, I felt afraid and alone. Takeila totally understood my fear and did a wonderful job of comforting me and really becoming my only "family" in such a terrible situation.
Takeila was concerned about me, even when she wasn't on duty. Takeila did so many things to make me feel comfortable and not alone but the realization that Takeila really cared made me feel more at home.
Another great example was when I passed out in the bathroom. I was so afraid that I would pass out because I knew I had lost a lot of blood and had passed out on a previous occasion when my blood volume decreased rapidly. Takeila was so kind to accompany me to the bathroom, and sure enough, I did pass out. Takeila kept me from falling and reached out for emergency assistance. When the emergency team showed up they attached all kinds of monitors to my body. I was still pretty out of it but was aware that Takeila was cautiously overseeing what everyone was doing. Then Takeila did the most remarkable thing! When they were applying monitors to my chest I was left fully exposed. No one else seemed to give a bit of notice, but Takeila very discreetly walked up and lifted my hospital gown to cover my exposed chest. That may have been a normal thing for Takeila, but to me it meant the world. Giving me an opportunity to retain some semblance of dignity in a clearly undignified situation meant everything to me at that moment. I don't know of a single person who would not have appreciated that tiny, but significant gift.
There were so many kindnesses shown to me by the other nurses… but Takeila really went above and beyond and I will never forget her kindness.