Shalonda Wilson
April 2019
Shalonda
Wilson
,
RN
Primary/Ambulatory Care
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System
Los Angeles
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

Like many Vietnam Veterans, I have a plethora of illnesses resulting from my boots-on-the-ground service in Pleikhu, Vietnam, Artillery Division.
I had Brain Surgery at VA Greater Los Angeles with the resulting diagnosis of Glioblastoma IV - non-curable Cancer in my Cognitive Region. I no longer speak, read, or write with fluency and accuracy. I was declared 100% disabled due to Agent Orange-related Cardiovascular Disease. Ms. Shalonda Wilson exemplifies many traits, professionalism, attentiveness, kindness, and compassion among them.
When initially meeting Ms. Wilson, my cognitive processes were strong. I am a retired litigating attorney. She knew me as an individual who delighted in skillful conversation and she was more than kind in accepting my wry sense of humor. With her very busy schedule, Dr. H was not always available for my clinical visits but, Ms. Wilson quickly acclimated herself with my medical profile and her assistance is more than exemplary.
It is oftentimes difficult for many to have patience with my speaking difficulties but, Ms. Wilson never demonstrates harshness or impatience with my speech loss. She listens carefully and encourages me to continue speaking when I become frustrated with attempts to speak with understandable clarity. This means a great deal to me because of her assisting me with speech calms my fears of not being understood.
My cardiovascular disease has led to a decrease in walking with steadiness. I didn't know the VA would give me a physical therapy session to determine disability extent. With no prompting from me, Ms. Wilson explained the process of getting proper walker assistance. She immediately arranged a therapy session and many thanks to her, I have an excellent walker. This has increased my ability to improve my cardiovascular disease through supported walking.
A great dissatisfaction for many Veterans is medical team approach. Ms. Wilson is not only a valuable professional nurse with Dr. H, but she is also a valuable professional to numerous Veterans who cannot adequately advocate for themselves. I also deeply appreciate the courtesy and engagement she extends my wife during our clinic visits.
Ms. Wilson is a truly extraordinary DAISY Nurse.