I was rushed to the ED at NMC in severe pain. I had been experiencing the worst level 10 back and hip pain for the prior 6 days. Finally, I made the decision to call 911 to be taken to NMC via ambulance. I was not able to walk due to pain. I must admit that growing up and owning a business in the area, my first thought was to take the long trip from Vernon to another hospital, but decided to go to Newton in my vulnerable pain condition.
Please understand I am not your typical patient. I am a 35-year-old, practicing Martial Artist and school owner who has worked with thousands of families over the years. I train 20 hours a week. It was very traumatizing not to be able to walk for 6 days. This was the first time in my life that I was wheeled into an emergency room on a stretcher and I did not know what to expect. Would I be left in a corner or dehumanized? All these things were running through my mind as I was feeling so very vulnerable.
I was immediately reassured by the first person who touched me, Valerie Longobardi. She was not assigned to my room, but when she saw the pain I was in, she took immediate action. I felt we had a connection and my pain was addressed. The rest of my experience was a 10 as everyone pulled together to diagnose my problem. I am most grateful to the angel, Valerie Longobardi. She is everything a nurse should be and so much more.