I just finished a series of iron infusions at OMC. While every nurse I encountered at the Short Stay Unit was great, Thomas Batey really stood out. He was involved in three of my five visits. Each time, Thomas seemed to sense what I needed that day and adjusted his energy level accordingly. He was professional, but never compromised on being friendly, nurturing and fun. He always let me know exactly what he was doing or about to do and why. He listened and answered all my questions, however silly they may have been, patiently and respectfully. He brought a kindness and sense-of-humor to a process that could easily be tedious or intimidating.
On my last visit, the original nurse had trouble getting the IV into my small veins which have the tendency to roll. After two attempts, he asked Thomas to take over. Thomas was so understanding and compassionate as I cried a little and quickly had me smiling and ready to try again. He was able to tame my bothersome veins and get the IV in.
I was always impressed at how Thomas would remember me when I came in after three days or more and would greet me like he was happy to see me. He is such an asset to OMC and deserves to be honored for his hard work, expertise, and dedication to the patients he so obviously cares deeply about.