I am honored to nominate Wendy Farrar for the DAISY award. I have worked with many RNs throughout most of my life, as both a family member and as a patient. Upon my very first meeting with Wendy, in preparation for my first chemo treatment, she exuded a sense of calm, competency, and compassion that she gave me the space to learn and to be vulnerable that I so desperately needed. We formed an instant rapport.
In that first meeting, Wendy took the time to describe all of the side effects I might encounter, providing me with tips from her extensive experience, which helped to guide me through those first days of side effects with no fear or confusion. She identified some medications that she felt would be beneficial to me and went to my physician to advocate for their prescription.
One of my concerns was whether or not I would need a port. Wendy, in light of her vast experience, felt that she could safely administer my infusions without the need for a port. And she was correct. I have been able to breeze through my infusions without the need for a port, for which I am very grateful. There was even a day where she worked her scheduled to ensure she would be there to give my infusion, knowing that others would not have been as comfortable administering the drug without a port.
During that first meeting, Wendy also expressed concerns about the rest of my family and offered to do what she could to allow my children a view into what was going on, answering any questions they might have, showing them around the center, etc. I was very touched that she recognized that, as a mother, my children's anxiety over my cancer overshadowed my own concerns. She helped me to explain to them what would happen, so they felt more at ease.
When I did encounter some odd issues, I felt comfortable enough to reach out to Wendy via her personal cell number, which she had thoughtfully provided. Usually, it is difficult for me to let people know about my health issues (I am a "suck it up" kind of gal), but Wendy made herself so trustworthy and approachable that I felt comfortable reaching out when I had questions. She responded to me quickly and worked with my physician to help me through whatever I encountered, no matter how strange!
As we have gone through this journey together, that immediate rapport that we had has developed into a comfortable friendship. We laugh, share stories of common hobbies, and appreciate each other's approach to what can be a difficult time for many. I could not have asked for a better RN and am truly blessed that she was assigned to me. I sincerely hope that you will honor her with this award, as I'm certain that I am not the only patient to have appreciated this wonderful woman.