Rita was a lighthouse in a storm. She is strong and gentle, sweet, and stern. She has an amazing way of knowing what to say to comfort the family of her patients but not sugar coat the truth either. Her attention and care were exceptional at all times. She is very skilled and has a knack for thinking on her feet.
My husband was her patient. He had to be sedated for 2 days after surgery so when he was finally awake he couldn't talk or function at all! I was beyond scared. Rita never faltered, she always knew just what to say or do! Most important she listened. We brainstormed together. I felt like we were a team in his care and that is rarely the case; as a family member, it is easy to feel lost and alone. I never felt that way with her. She should teach classes on family care!
Rita made my husband feel so safe and cared for. It never mattered if it was the beginning of her shift or the end, she was always a very bright light in some of my darkest days.