Mr. M was a patient with significant pulmonary issues. He spent many days and even weeks on the Medical ICU and was quite ill most of the time he was with us. One day, his wife shared with his MICU nurse at the time, Johanna Maier, that the couple's wedding anniversary was coming at the end of the week. Although Mr. M was unable to leave the hospital, his wife wished to make a special home-cooked meal to bring into the hospital on Saturday to celebrate the occasion. Upon hearing this, Johanna immediately set out to help facilitate this request.
After reviewing the plan with Mr. M's wife, Johanna then called Food and Nutrition services and arranged for a table and tablecloth to be brought to the unit. Although she was not scheduled to work on Saturday, Johanna made arrangements to reserve our solarium space for the anniversary meal and left instructions detailing the plan for the weekend nurse. With a shirt from home, flowers provided by our PSC, and the support of our nursing staff, this couple was able to share a special moment together even under the less than desirable circumstances created by his hospitalization.
Unfortunately, Mr. M later passed away from his disease in the days leading up to Christmas. Although a sad ending, I feel strongly that Johanna's efforts to help this couple make the best of their special day were appreciated and left a lasting impression. Furthermore, her actions demonstrated true caring and compassion for our patients and their loved ones. While Johanna would be quick to say she didn't do anything special, I believe she routinely displays this same caring approach towards all she encounters. Johanna is an extraordinary nurse and one that we are proud to say is part of our MICU family!