Recently, I received some overwhelming news about my health and required two surgeries. For the second surgery, which was a major procedure, Bill came in with the rest of the OR team in pre-op, participated in reviewing what to expect and willingly answered any questions from me and my friend who was there to support me. When it was time to roll out of the pre-op room, Bill was at my side. As we left the room, I suddenly was struck with a panic I had not felt before, or expected. Bill somehow recognized my anxiety, although I said nothing, and as we moved down the hall into the OR, he remained in my eye line and gently touched me on the shoulder and hand. In the OR, I am sure he had a million things to do, but again, stayed at my side where I could see him and kept a connection until I moved to the OR table and was sedated. Those simple actions, staying by my side, the gentle touch and being present with me allayed my anxiety and allowed me to go to sleep reassured that I was surrounded by a caring and compassionate team that would watch over me and keep me safe.
Bill's actions made such a difference for me and I am sure were nothing he would consider out of the ordinary. For me, those actions reflected exceptional caring and kindness.