This past year has been the hardest year of my life. But meeting a nurse like Chrystal McIver, having her be there for me, has smoothed the journey.
My younger sister and I were hit by a drunk driver and both were then brought to VCU Medical Center. When I first met Chrystal and was greeted by her sympathetic smile, I felt immediately that I was in such good hands!
My sister was in a coma in the ICU. I was a patient in the M9C Surgery Trauma unit. I was in so much pain and just devastated by the entire situation. More than anything, I was dying to see my little sister. Recognizing how important that visit would be for me, Chrystal made time in her already busy day to make that visit happen. She connected me to portable suction and a heart monitor (which I know is so much work) and then took me to the ICU to see my sister.
That visit meant so much to me. It helped me with my emotional and mental pain. Chrystal was such a good educator throughout that time. She helped me understand all of what was going on with me and with my sister.
Today, I came back to the unit as a nursing student and seeing Chrystal McIver again has made my day yet again! She even sat down with me to discuss possible career options for me that would allow me to be a nurse in spite of my back injuries.
Chrystal McIver is a transformational nurse. Her work with me showed her commitment to the holistic needs of a patient and now she has given me the encouragement and support to continue my goal to be the same to others. I will be inspired by and grateful to her forever.