My aunt was in Wesley on and off over the last year as she was in the later stages of dementia and congestive heart failure. Wesley's staff has done an amazing job taking care of her so many times. There were days my aunt was peaceful and sweet. There were also days she was a handful and fiery. Through it all, she had compassionate care. There was one nurse who stood out above them all. Mackenzie Carpenter. She treated my aunt with kindness and compassion beyond what her job required her to do. When it came time for my aunt to go home and be with Jesus, our family was unable to be there. Mackenzie took the time to stay by my aunt's side as she passed. She held her hand so that she would not be alone in her final moments. I don't know how you thank someone for that. I don't know how to express to them the peace that they gave you in those heartbreaking moments of not being able to be there. It was obvious watching her work that she leads by example. She has a very natural sense of how to guide others. She teaches them by example in work and deed. She never loses sight that the "Patient" is a person who deserves dignity and respect. She seems to be dedicated to doing the right thing even when it is not the easy thing to do.
Note: This is Mackenzie's 2nd DAISY Award!