I was in Chilton Hospital for 5 days. I first want to say all the nurses and staff that were there to help me were the best. But, I have to single out one nurse, Marlene Grafstein, who took care of me on my worst day and my best day. I came into the ED around 7:30 pm and I was in terrible pain and bleeding. It was so bad that I couldn't lay down on the bed. After seeing the house doctor it was decided I needed a catheter because of a blockage. I finally got some relief. Around 4:30 am and I was brought into my room. At 7:00, I met Marlene, who had a big smile and was so calming. You have to realize I hadn't eaten in 24 hours and I had no sleep for just as long. Marlene and my night nurse talked to me about what was going to happen that day. Still, no food because I was going for tests which didn't happen till the afternoon. Marlene spent so much time in my room because I was having the catheter bag changed every hour as well as having the saline bag replaced. In between this, she had to change the linens on the bed repeatedly because of leakage. Marlene came into my room always with a smile and something nice to say to keep me talking and not thinking of what was happening to me. That day was one of the most uncomfortable days of my life and all I can say is Marlene is one great nurse!
My last day in the hospital Marlene was assigned to me again. But this time it was completely different for me. I was going home feeling much better. This time I was smiling all the time and Marlene kept stopping in to see how I was doing. I kept telling her, "I am healed and better, go take care of the other patients who need you now." Thank you, Marlene, for your care and compassion.