October 2013
Donetta
Leach
,
RNC
NICU
Miami Valley Hospital
Dayton
,
OH
United States

 

 

 

I met Donetta the night our son was born and she has been a part our lives ever since. I don't remember much about our first meeting except she gave me the first pictures of our son, told me she would be by his side and everything would be alright. I had never been so terrified. She took the time to talk through all of the equipment, procedures and needs of our son. She signed up to be his night shift Primary Nurse and made sure we were informed.

Donetta is a fantastic patient advocate. It is evident in her care and patient outcomes. She touched our hearts, especially when she made our son a "preemie - size" St. Patty's Day shirt and had a photo shoot to create memories for us! Donetta played a major role in our son's development and good outcome while in the hospital. She is a great resource for her coworkers, the unit and families. Donetta gave us spectacular care!

...

Donetta made my experience at MVH positive at a time that was extremely difficult for me and my husband. When I called in to check on her, I was always happy to hear that she was our daughter's nurse. Donetta took excellent care of her which impacted who she is and her overall health now.

Donetta took care in finding just the right position that made her feel comfortable. I know she spent countless hours getting that spot for her. When she was not our nurse, she always came around to check on her. Donetta was her night nurse so I spent time conversing with her on the phone before bedtime and first thing in the morning. She always answered the phone promptly and with genuine concern for her at every call. She took the time to explain blood work, blood pressures, test results and oxygen levels, making sure I understood them. I felt our daughter was in good hands!

Donetta took pictures of her for me and spent time doing a scrap book for us. It was a long stay for our daughter and took a toll on me and my husband, not to mention our other children. So when Donetta did pictures, it helped with the emotional load that I carried. Donetta also wrote some poems about her that she put with her pictures. Each time I read these I cry because they are so touching. I will cherish those poems forever!

I remember the day we finally left the hospital for a transfer for more evaluation. Donetta worked all night but stayed with us during the day until we left. I so much needed that support because my husband worked so many hours and could not be there.

Donetta's caring and compassion went far beyond my expectations. I would like to thank her for her dedication to high quality care. Donetta's heart is in her work and it shows!