I would like to give thanks for Alyssa's incredible care, help, and support. She was and has been my nurse while going through my breast cancer treatment. To say she is 'just a nurse' is inadequate - she is the best nurse! She is someone who has helped me in more ways than one. I value her as a professional and as a friend.
Alyssa was always an encouraging face for me during my treatments and various doctor appointments. There was a genuine connection with our patient relationship; as well as, our developing friendship. Anytime I called with a question or came for an appointment, she would make me feel as though I was her only patient. I felt as though she made me a priority and there was always a gentleness in her voice when she spoke.
Her compassion is incomparable to anyone else I have met - in and out of her field of work. She is always smiling, positive and she invigorates my spirit to feel that I will receive the best news when appropriate. Her ability to make me feel exceptional and at ease is something I greatly admire about her.
Alyssa regularly made a point to come and see me during my chemo treatments. It was a visit I looked forward to each trip to the hospital and that definitely put a smile on my face and made me feel "it was a good day" if I was lucky enough and had a chance to see her. I particularly remember a time she came with a gift for me along with a written poem that touched my heart. I have it placed on a table in my living room and am reminded daily of her sincere gesture and how there is something to be grateful for.
She has many remarkable nursing talents, one that stood out to me, was her tremendous ability to have a listening ear. She didn't forget a thing I talked about or how I may have felt the last time we spoke. Whether, it was something I was sad, scared, excited, concerned about or us just "shooting the breeze" about our families and life, she would check up on our previous conversation and ask me how everything was going. I quickly realized she was somebody I could confide in and who showed extraordinary empathy.
She spoke in high regard about the doctor she worked for, which always gave me an extra sense of security and made me feel like I was in exceptional hands and was receiving the best care possible. She kept me updated on my plan of care and always helped me with my appointment scheduling, especially if I needed to make a change. I was so appreciative of how she was so prompt on everything she did.
I've observed her on the floor with other patients and their families while I was sitting in the waiting room. She has such a kind and caring manner one can't forget. She also has a way about her that makes her simple to communicate with, which in return, gives her patients a trusting confidence in her personal and professional skills. As she had done for me many times as she walked me out, I witnessed how she never makes her patients feel they are hurried along. She allows them time to ask any final questions, reminds them not to hesitate to call for any reason, say a goodbye, and makes sure they feel comfortable to be on their way.
Alyssa has made an impact in my life in such a short period of time and her continued support couldn't have come at a better time. Not only have I had to deal with my own cancer, but I just lost my sister 3 months ago to cancer suddenly, and then shortly after, a new mass appeared in my other breast on a recent mammogram. Luckily, it was benign, but nevertheless; Alyssa was there every step of the way. She surprised me and stopped by around the time of my biopsy. I was extremely relieved to see her. She's like a little angel that pops up when I need her most. I was terrified and my anxiety was high. I don't think I would have made it without her. I needed her more than she knew. She encouraged me to hang in there and gave me the strength to stay strong as best I could.
I just recently had another procedure, Alyssa, yet again, made a point to swing by and come see me and give me her well wishes. I remember feeling how just her presence made me less nervous for surgery as soon as she walked into the room. She even sent me a bouquet of flowers when I got home to let me know she was still thinking of me and hoping my recovery was going well.
I have been blessed to have her alongside me through my journey. They say there is a reason for everything and good things come when we least expect it, just maybe one reason why I had a gut feeling to choose Sanford in Fargo, was to meet this special lady who I truly believe goes above and beyond for her patients. I know she has always done this for me. I will forever be grateful for her and everything she has done during this difficult time for me. I can't even imagine how many others she has inspired in her nursing career. Alyssa is knowledgeable and very dedicated to her job. I do believe we will continue to strengthen our friendship and hope it to be an inspiring story to share with others.