I can't say my stay at WellStar Cobb Labor and Delivery started off pleasant. Sadly, I'm certain that most people in the hospital do not start their stay on a happy note. It was a Tuesday, the start of a new week because this day made 17 weeks of pregnancy. That morning, I woke up certain that my pregnancy was ending. Fortunately, I was already at the hospital, finishing up my call shift, and only had to walk over to triage. Everyone was prompt while trying to assess me, all while maintaining professionalism and remaining calm, even though I was hemorrhaging.
Of course, I was admitted, stayed a total of 7 days, received many blood draws, a couple of IV's, a blood transfusion, consults, numerous ultrasounds, and had many nurses. Each person I encountered was wonderful; each doctor, midwife, nurse, tech, ultrasound tech, EVS, and food services. I can't say enough about everyone that took care of me. I would love to mention a special nurse who far exceeded her job that day, Patti Durand. Patti went over and beyond to provide me with great care, but more importantly to show me kindness.
While checking my swelling I asked her to ignore my toenails. Patti's response, "I'm going to give you a pedicure." This was nonnegotiable, a firm statement, not an offer. Shortly after she returned to my room with polish, clippers, a file, and lotion, all that she went and purchased herself in the gift shop. Along with hot towels. Again, I couldn't get out of this "offer". She proceeded, un-phased. Somehow this wasn't awkward, it was just kind. A selfless act to serve someone where she saw a need. If only we all took those opportunities, right? Sometimes working in healthcare, we all might lose focus at times as to why we entered this field. Why we work long hours, holidays, thankless shifts, sacrifice our family to serve other families, and often take our work home with us in worry. And for all of us the "why" might vary a little. but, the root of the why doesn't. We are caregivers; compassionate, serving, caring, kind people who want to help and serve others.
I can't say my expectation of Patti was exceeded, because I already knew she is an amazing, caring nurse. And saying she exceeded my expectation would acknowledge and give room for doubt, which was never there. But I will say my spirit experienced some restoration to have been given such excellent care and shown such selfless kindness. Honestly, I feel so honored to work with so many of the least self-serving people I've ever known. Thank you, Patti, (and everyone in labor and deliver) for caring for me, laughing with me, crying with me, and making me feel at home when I needed it the most. You will never know how much this meant.