I was originally seen by Tampa's outreach program. I had been seen probably about two or three times in the past month, month and a half. I was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis at the age of 20 with the removal of my gall bladder as well. I had no health insurance, a long list of other medical problems, and was also dating an abusive alcoholic. I'm ashamed to say that I allowed my drinking to also escalate on some days just to deal and drown him out.
The evening that I met Sabrina, I had been ill for almost 2 weeks. Surviving only on baby food but with nausea and vomiting all of the time. I knew the looks the medical staff gave me. I had seen it on my own face. The pity, anger, frustration, and judgment but I couldn't take care of myself anymore. I met her at TGH main after being admitted with a foot IV. After 20 sticks it was the only one that held. I did notice that the tape should have been secured better and of course, the tube became unscrewed. I felt like everyone was already misunderstanding me and I was scared. Sabrina saw it and told me not to move with it hooked up. It seemed like she thought I had pulled it out, I thought that she was judging me too. I cried and was not very nice to her. I even used the online system to write a report about being treated badly.
I took a walk to calm my nerves and when I came back, Sabrina had spoken to my doctor and retrieved my anti-depressants early. Due to being sick, my schedule was off. She also got permission for me to eat a little bit of food, as I was fasting. It may not sound like much, but when you are hungry, alone, scared, and feel judged by everyone and you lash out at someone who still puts up with you and is willing to help you without a harsh word, it makes all the difference in the world. That day, I needed someone in my corner and she showed me what true humanity can be.