My mother-in-law, was life-flighted from Atchison Hospital to KU Medical Center. We had been apprised that her condition was grave. She had been struggling with congestive heart failure for several months and was becoming weaker each day, but this was still a shock to her family.
When we arrived at KU her care in the Medical Transplant ICU was already in full swing. Tests had been started or scheduled, and her room was a flurry of activity as medical professionals observed and evaluated. This continued throughout the day. We were impressed with each employee we encountered that day.
The one constant during this chaotic and stressful day was the RN in charge of her care, Ellie Steer. She was attentive to her patient and thoughtful to us. She explained the procedures and tests that were being done. As results were returned she shared them with us. Even though it was an extremely busy day on the floor, she never appeared rushed, harried or impatient with our questions and concerns. She was quick to share a smile, or a laugh, on a day when they were few and far between.
Ellie worked well with all the other medical professionals, and it was apparent to all of us that this is her "calling". Our family will always remember Ellie, both for her professionalism and kindness. The University of Kansas Medical Center is fortunate to have her on staff.