I checked myself into the ER on a Friday afternoon unsure of what was going on with me. Several hours later I was told I was very, very sick and needed to stay overnight. I had pancreatitis, and my gallbladder was going haywire. My daughter’s first birthday party was supposed to be Saturday afternoon. I was so bummed. Friday night was a blur. Then, the realization Saturday morning of what I was missing hit me. I was so sad. Tonya walks in with the sweetest smile and kindest eyes. I instantly felt like this woman was going to make me better no matter how I actually felt. She made me feel loved and cared for, and she didn’t even know me. She was so gentle and loving, and we had the best couple of days together. Night shift made me sad because a new nurse would come (even though they were all great). When Tonya left Sunday night, she said I’ll be back Friday, but I hope I don’t see you again. I hope you’re out of here with your family again. Lucky for me, I was there for 8 days. I got an extra 2 days with Tonya, and she got to see me go home. I can’t describe all the ways she loved me and cared for me, but it was like my best friend was there from the beginning. I know I hit the jackpot getting her that first day, and I know you guys hit the jackpot getting her on your team. I will forever be grateful to her!