I am writing a DAISY letter on behalf of a nurse who took care of my child in CVICU, Annie Spedding, who stood out. This nurse did a million little things every day that she worked, and had my child and family feeling excellent. She went out of her way, and above the call of duty every day. Recently, however, during our last visit, Annie left an impression that will stay with me always.
We have a little one who suffers from several cardiac lesions. She gets especially ill in the springtime when the winds pick up. Getting around the house and playing with her sisters and brothers during this time is harder than usual. During our last visit, I had to bring my other children with me. They were constantly looking for things to do and were trying to stay close to their sister. It was a really busy day in the unit, and people were everywhere. I had not realized that the children had wandered out of our room. But there was Annie, although she was very busy, she took the time to direct the kids to our room. Annie could have left with a warning about wandering away, but she didn't. She coordinated activities for the children, actually listened to what they needed, and said she could help. She then proceeded to make games and little tasks they could do, she contacted the "play people" to come see us, and she always kept her word to the kids.
Unbeknownst to me, Annie made arrangements with other people to visit my child and family in order to make us comfortable. After work, she went and got things to keep the kids happy, I think she paid out of her own pocket. Annie made us feel that all of us mattered and we were important to her. I know that this is a job that special people choose to do, but people like Annie show that this is a job they choose to live.
Because of Annie and her co-workers, I will always tell people if you want your child cared for by a hospital that really cares, take them to Stanford Children's Hospital. Annie has made us laugh when we cried, and as I write this note, my eyes are moist as I think of her and her devotion and kindness in caring for not just my child, but for everyone she has in her care.
Thank you, Annie, you are a wonderful DAISY.