I have known Jeff for several years. He was my preceptor and former coworker when I was new to acute care years ago. My husband developed angioedema from a peritonsillar abscess. We were told he needed to be intubated or have an emergency trach placed to secure an airway. On the way up to the OR, we ran into Jeff. I could not be more grateful.
I was at the hospital alone and a complete sobbing hysterical mess. Seeing my otherwise healthy husband get an emergency trach and put on a vent to be sent to the surgical trauma ICU was horrific. I was living one of my worst possible nightmares. But Jeff made it more bearable. I am a critical care nurse turned peds nurse but that night I was not a nurse, just a very scared wife.
The nurse part of my brain was running through every possible worst-case scenario, making the situation worse. Jeff provided me comfort and support so that I wouldn't feel so scared and alone. He gave me a pep talk, a hug, made sure I ate something, had a drink, was safe to drive, and even walked me out. Thanks to Jeff, I was able to make it through one of the worst days of my life. I have always admired him as a nurse and now I appreciate him even more. We will never forget how you helped us.