I came into St. Joe's for significant pain. I was visiting my family in Milwaukee and ended up having major surgery. Unfortunately, due to the extent of the damage, my recovery was slow, it was complicated, and murphy's law was my friend. Anything that could go awry did.
I was scared, lost, in pain and had no idea what would hit next. Many nurses came and went. I got my medicines; my blood pressure and heart were dreaded and everyone was polite.
Karie saw me. She saw the person behind the patient. She heard what I didn't ask. "Would I get better?" "Is this normal?" There was no question too menial and no concern that she didn't address. She examined me and asked questions that I know she knew the answers to, but wanted to listen to me. She was efficient, professional, and she was kind. She gently directed, informed me that I would be walking more and checked on me regularly.
Karie's humor made me smile. Karie made me feel safe. Karie made me feel heard. Karie helped me realize that I would come out on the other side.
We are eternally grateful for the gift of Karie during this ordeal. May she have success and joy in her life and may St. Joseph's Ascension treasure Karie as part of their closest family. Thank you.