I had just had a total hysterectomy due to a diagnosis of endometrial cancer. After struggling in recovery, I was whisked away to my room, groggy, scared and desperate to be comfortable. I got to my room and was helped getting into my bed. Immediately, I heard a soothing voice- it was my nurse, Ali. Of course, every nurse is expected to be kind and helpful, but there is something special about Ali.
As time was ticking away minute by minute, the pain started to get unbearable. Ali worked with me and the doctor until they found a concoction that helped. Shouldn't every nurse be expected to do that? Yes, I would think so. Here is where the difference starts. Ali was the most genuine and caring nurse that I have ever encountered. He allowed me to put the worry of pain aside because he was so on top of it, always ensuring I was comfortable.
When he spoke to me, it was genuine. When he asked me if I was OK, he really wanted to know. When he explained next steps, he talked to me as if we were lifelong friends- he was in my corner, cheering for me to get better! When I was discharged the following day, my family and I talked about how lucky I was that Ali came into our lives and that I was so blessed that he was my nurse. Ali has left a lifetime impression on me and I will forever be grateful for the kindness, caring, and compassion that he showed me. Abington Hospital is lucky to have Ali representing them- he is one in a million!