I have had multiple hospital stays with pretty much your average nurse: efficient but nothing extraordinary until tonight at St. Peter's on the second floor with nurse Tessa. I had a brief stay from 6:00 am until 3:00 pm when I was transferred to another facility.
My stay with St. Peter's, however brief, has left a lasting impression on me. Tessa was thoughtful and generous. She went out of her way to calm my fears and make my family and me feel welcome and safe. She spoke with the ambulance and flight crews, and she even called ahead to the other facility to ensure a smooth transition. When my husband had to leave during this whole process, she not only checked on me, but she comforted and consoled me when the magnitude of my situation overwhelmed me. Her constant care and vigilance made my stay unforgettable. I truly had every intention of leaving her a thank you note until I reached my destination at the other facility.
I had previously heard of the scope and magnitude of this other facility and how it would "wow" me, but nothing I experienced there came close to the care and authenticity of Tessa. She made me feel like more than a name and diagnosis. This whole situation made me realize how clearly and vitally important nurses like Tessa are. Tessa deserves recognition for her outstanding job performance as well as her equally enchanting natural light and positive energy that she brings to all interactions.