I was admitted into Inspira almost one week ago due to extreme pain and vomiting/wrenching due to my severe gastroparesis. I have had the same Extraordinary Nurse on the day shift my whole stay thus far, her name is Willow. I am a single mother with three children at home, ages 21 years, 14 years, and 18 months in age. I had surgery and a feeding tube put in last week and my goal is to try to keep as much down as I can and get the pain to a manageable level. Being a single mother, along with being away from my babies this long has not been easy at all. Willow not only took the time these past few days to educate and encourage me but in my opinion has gone above and beyond to help get me through this difficult time.
The idea of going home with the feeding tube was VERY scary for me. Several times I broke down and said I just can't do this and every single time Willow was right here beside me to tell me "You got this girl" and she really gave me so much hope that things will get better. She always made a point to praise the baby steps and progress I have made already! Not only did she go above and beyond the call of duty, but every single day she checked in frequently, cheering me on with high fives and encouragement and did everything she could possibly do to prepare and educated me with going home with the feeding tube and what to expect at home in the days to come.
I have been inpatient many, many times due to my gastroparesis and I can honestly say I have never had a more caring and genuine nurse! I saw Willow as not only a nurse but a friend. I was actually so sad to see her go today because I knew she has a few days off and I may be discharged before she is back. I believe that Inspira is very lucky to have Willow on their staff. She printed out information for me to take home to help me better understand how to use the feeding tube and how to care for it. I cannot express enough how beneficial she was for me this hospital stay!! She never made me feel like just another patient, she truly cared and I could never thank her enough for everything she has done for me this past week.
Not only was she my dayshift nurse, but she was also a friend. She was an ear to listen when I just needed to vent, a shoulder to cry on, and she was that inspiration that I needed to truly believe that I got this. I honestly feel like I cannot even put into words how much easier she made this past week for me. Willow is in my opinion an amazing nurse and should be recognized for her hard work and dedication to her patients!! This world needs more nurses exactly like Willow!!