As I sit down to write this, I am flooded with impressions made with Teresa Ley, RN, as she tended to my IVIG treatment every four weeks, for what is now 18 months. Once consistent character that rises to the top with each thought is Teresa's great attitude.
An attitude comes with an aroma. It can either be fragrant or stink up a room. Teresa has a way to release some of the best-smelling, life-giving, positive-thinking, ways into your life. This should not be overlooked. This is a valuable gift. This gift of value is a treasure, opened to all her patients. We are the recipients of this overflow of goodness, specially made, shaken up, and running over for her patients.
I am one of those patients. Teresa was my nurse on duty when I received news that my father had passed away at his home under hospice care. We were just starting my infusion when I got the call. I was visibly shaken, and so, so sad. Teresa wrapped her arms around me and talked with me through remembrances of my Dad as I began my treatment. I felt like her priority, and as she entered the room to check on me from time to time, change infusion bottles, take vitals, and all the things that nurses do to keep records up to date, I felt loved and in the perfect place to be when such news had to be given. Teresa had other patients to tend to that day. I wasn't the only one, but it felt like I was.
That kind of "care" is hard to beat. We all have experienced nice nurses, kind nurses, conscientious nurses, and nurses of perfection. When you are tended to by a nurse that cares, it feels different. There is a depth of compassion that bubbles up. It reveals to you a sign of a "Calling" that is being fulfilled. Teresa is walking out her calling and I am blessed because of it. Her colleges also receive the benefit of her walk as she embraces each co-worker, building a respectful friendship that blooms into a respectful relationship. I have watched the surgical unit flow like a life-giving stream. Teresa had to pivot on many adjustments that had to be made due to the Covid-19 virus. I never heard her complain. Teresa initiates a long arm of assistance leading by example. I watched as she patiently trained others on a new computer system. Teresa brought a sense of humor and smiles while building up those around her while training on this program. Teresa brings pleasantness to the 3rd floor. I always feel so welcome.
As an IVIG patient, I want to give Teresa the "shout-out" she deserves.
It is a definite asset to have a nurse of her caliber working on your BRMC staff and at your hospital. She is a gem!