I broke my back last week and have been through the wringer. It's been terrifying to be this helpless in so many ways. Tammi came in one morning and described all the medications she was giving me, asked questions, listened, and asked follow-up questions. When I told her, hesitatingly, that my back was hurting at about an 8-9, she immediately put in an order for the breakthrough pain and told me that her goal is to stay ahead of the pain, not chase it, so that I can focus on healing. She reassured me that she was there to help me succeed in recovery - not just with her words but with her actions. I felt so much gratitude that I started crying and she was professional and kind in her response. She's obviously here to take care of people, not move them through the system or mark off a checklist, and I think that kind of attitude should be rewarded above all. I've never been in this sort of situation before and so reliant on someone else's care of me. I think Tammi came at a time when I was beginning to sink into a very low place of hesitant distrust. 

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My sister was in a bad car accident and had to have spinal surgery. Initially, I felt it unnecessary to take emergency unpaid leave and travel from the East Coast to Texas, as all reports from her ex-husband indicated that she was doing really well.  Then I was finally able to speak directly to my sister, and she was in immense pain, felt very alone, felt scared, and did not know how to communicate her needs to the medical team. I flew out the next day. Certainly, there have been very good nurses/support staff, but the nurse that has impressed me the most (myself being an RN) is Tammi Bone. She took the time to listen to my sister, performed a focused and thorough assessment, and assisted my sister in getting what she needed to heal and be as comfortable as possible. Notably, she advocated for my sister without making her feel like a burden or nuisance, and on a day when my sister was breaking down in tears, she easily started to laugh and smile and formulate plans for the future.  I understand Tammi is going for her NP license, and she will be an incredible asset to healthcare (she already is!!) Please take the time to show your appreciation to your wonderful nurse, Tammi.