This is the third hospitalization and surgery for my son who suffers from uncontrollable seizures. The seizures are due to a ruptured AVM at the age of 10. My son is 23 years old and hasn't been able to drive for the last two years.
J is hopeful his upcoming surgery will help return him to a more "normal" life, especially for a young man of his age. Coming into surgery for the third time was daunting and very scary for J. In pain, cranky, and scared, Danielle, turned out to be exactly who and what J needed.
With her cheerful personality, Danielle came in treating J in a normal way, rather than someone facing a scary and possibly long-term recovery. She got to know J and talked to him like a new friend, tried to interest him in games, helped him ride a stationary bike, etc.
Additionally, Danielle took excellent medical care of J and helped him feel clean and comfortable. While doing so, she spoke to him in terms he could understand while at the same time making him feel cared for, "normal" and hopeful. When Danielle is on duty, J smiles when he sees her, jokes around, and acts as if he knows this whole experience is part of a process that will result in a good outcome. Danielle is able to do all of the above just by making a connection, relating, and talking about everyday commonalities and topics. She exudes care and understanding while demonstrating her professional skills.
As a mother, I couldn't ask for someone better to touch my son's life in such a way, at a time when he (and we, his family) needed it. We, as well as J, will always be grateful for the opportunity to have been a patient and family of Danielle. Thank you isn't enough.