I was a patient at AAMC for two days following my vertical gastric sleeve surgery. The day after surgery was very traumatic for me - I was in pain; had horrific gas pains; was trying to drink my water; trying to walk, and my emotions were a wreck. I thought perhaps I'd made the greatest mistake of my life having the surgery. I was lying in bed crying, sobbing in fact when Jenn came in to give me meds. She gently spoke to me and listened while I cried out my fears and angst. She reminded me to focus on my journey and encouraged me with quotes of affirmation. Jenn's words were a Godsend. She lifted me up with not only her words, but simply her presence as she listened. She listened so intently and she knew exactly the balance of encouragement and support I needed at that moment. She had other patients to attend to, and when she returned to my room she had a piece of paper whereby she had written 10 quotes of encouragement. She encouraged me to copy them on post-it notes and affix them to my bathroom mirror as reminders each morning and night. And then she said, "Now I think you are ready for a hug." And as she hugged me, my tears were no longer sorrowful, but tears of relief. I knew in that moment, God had sent me an angel to comfort me and encourage me. I've never experienced such compassionate nursing. Her nursing skills were excellent of course, but her concern and compassion for my emotional well-being are far above any standard of care.
In those quiet moments that night, this amazing woman of character and strength and dedication to her patients made a profound difference in my life. I will not forget this gift she gave to me at a time when I was so vulnerable. Jenn's insight and calming manner were from her heart. She truly has a gift for nursing and may she be blessed to be a blessing.