Our daughter, J, 11 years old, came to Chippenham ER late evening with many unexplained symptoms. We are new to the Richmond area and two urgent care doctors missed her symptoms - which we now know are "classic" type 1 diabetes. As her parents, we knew something big was still wrong and upon advice from a friend - bought an OTC sugar meter - which read 565! We took her immediately to the ER where she received immediate expert and loving care. Shortly thereafter, we were admitted to the PICU, where several phenomenal nurses cared for our daughter as if she were their own. Nurse Christina was our day nurse and therefore did most of the educating (of all of us!) and caring for J.
Christina provided "entry-level" diabetes education so as not to overwhelm us and gradually moved up in instruction training, modeling, and let us administer her care. Very empowering during a scary time.
Christina also cared very lovingly for our daughter. From a gentle touch to her sweet voice and spirit, to hunting down ranch dressing, she was exceptional. She cared for my husband and me also - offering coffee, blankets, etc. But the best thing she "gave" us was confidence.
Many nursing skills can be taught, learned, and improved with time and dedication, but what Christina has is intangible. In addition to her expertise, we felt like she was caring for her own daughter and in many ways, for us too. We are forever grateful for her making the first days of our life with diabetes filled with tenderness. And even a few laughs.
Note: This is Christina's 2nd DAISY Award!