I would like to tell you about Chloe. You see, she is actually a newer employee for NCCU. Making the transition into a new profession has its challenges, and she has opened her mind and her heart in order to be the best she can be as she grows. She is always learning new tasks, and but she has something about her that just cannot be taught. When I collect the votes for employee of the month, she has usually nominated many, and thanked them for even the smallest moment she needed them, or task they helped her with.
One month when the nominations were collected, there was something special in thereabout Chloe. A family hand wrote a letter and left it in our box, and this is what it said: "To whom it may concern: My sister was a patient in the ICU. Chloe Cecilia, RN was one of the nurses assigned to care for her. We were blessed to have this wonderful caring and professional nurse for three days during our time here. Chloe has exhibited a great deal of empathy which has been a welcome relief during this very difficult process. Chloe has always been upbeat and positive, and there has never been a time that I felt she was not sincere in her interactions with me or my sister. Chloe has always responded quickly to my requests and concerns regarding the care of my sister. It was a blessing to have met Chloe."
This patient's prognosis was poor, and she was to be discharged on Hospice care. The moments that Chloe spent with them meant so much to them, and they were comforted by the care they received, and the kindness shown to all.
This is not the only time that we have received such kind comments about Chloe. She recently received another heartfelt compliment from a family about how she went out of her way to take the time to just talk, educate, and just be genuinely kind. The family complimented all of the staff but took to Chloe and her sincere caring nature.
The story we received was the following: A few weeks ago, I went to have my hair done at a new place with a new hairstylist. When I mentioned I worked for UTMB, my hairstylist asked what unit and if I knew Chloe. Chloe had apparently been her mom's nurse and made a huge impression on her and her mom. My hairstylist just flowed with compliment after compliment stating that her mom had received the most excellent care here at UTMB and Chloe was a major reason for that feeling. She spoke of how Chloe had become an adopted member of the family and how she would personally always take that "short drive across the causeway" to come back to UTMB here on the island. Chloe truly is a rising star! She made this family who was going through something most families do not (removal of a brain tumor) and had not only eased their minds, but was so friendly, caring and compassionate, they've decided they will always come back to the island for any further care!
It is not hard to notice that Chloe Cecilia has a heart of gold. She allows it to show in everything that she does. When we treat our patients and families as if they are part of our family, it can provide comfort in the most trying of times. We are very proud to nominate Chloe, and we are glad that she is part of our UTMB NCCU family.