I have worked with Darlene for many years now. Very often I get to catch a glimpse of her caring for her patients. Filing a sleeping patients' fingernails, sitting in a chair next to her patient's bed, and truly listening to them. I have always thought of Darlene as a kind person and a good nurse.
My family had a member come into Mount Carmel ER with end-stage cancer and a broken hip. He was taken up to the ACU. He had not regained consciousness. As a family member watching Darlene care for our Papa I got see more than just a glimpse in a room. I was in the room with her, and Papa in the bed. Her calm manner helps you keep calm. She would talk softly to Papa as she gave him medicine and lift his head to help him swallow. Her kind words to his wife made sure that she stayed the night with her husband. And it was their last night together. Our family will be forever grateful for that.
Darlene is a nurse who sees people. She saw all of us. Her kindness, compassion, and excellent nursing skills are above measure. Even in a difficult time as it was, I am grateful to have been able to see Darlene work from inside the room, instead of the hallway.