tracey german, RN

I must tell a little background. I am a retired RN. I put off open-heart surgery for a while as it scared me to death. I finally had to submit and go through with it. I live alone and have no help or family. I drove myself to the ER late one evening. I was in the ER probably five hours then admitted to the telemetry unit. Sure, I was still scared, but I tried to be brave. That night I met Tracey, but we did not have a long conversation. She was busy yet always there if needed. The next morning, I was feeling anxious, but I am not one to show it much. I was sitting in bed quietly crying and she was there. She was so sweet and kind while I was having a minor meltdown. The day goes on. Doctors were in and out. The surgeon came and said to schedule my surgery for Monday. Of course, then it really hit me, and I was alone. That evening when she came into work, she came into my room with a gift for me. She got me a small bag filled with treats. She also had a "get well" balloon attached to the bag. She gave it to me with the biggest smile and such a caring heart. Remember, she had only seen me that one night! I was so overwhelmed and surprised that someone was so sweet, kind, and caring. I just wanted to cry but managed to wait until later. I can tell you she really restored my faith in people and especially nurses. What an angel. In fact, I called her my angel. I am a very kind-hearted person and my one basic thing in life is just being kind to everyone no matter who there are. I still have that balloon here at home and think of her every time I look at it. She should be rewarded for her amazing kindness and care. God bless her!