April 2019
Heidi
Duran
,
RN
7 North
Brigham & Women's Faulkner Hospital
Boston
,
MA
United States
The day after my second shoulder surgery was the most painful day in my 46 years and the only time a complete stranger became a cherished friend in a matter of 8 hours. This stranger was my nurse Heidi Duran, who I've since found out was working per diem on the 7 South floor. I am not very religious, but given that fact, somebody was certainly looking out for me that day. That morning, Heidi was assigned a guy and his girlfriend who weren't prepared for a hospital overnight stay, couldn't find the right mix of medicines, couldn't manage restroom needs, were sick of dealing with a broken shoulder for 6 weeks and were challenged with a pinched elbow nerve. From the first greeting, Heidi said, "I won't give up until I solve this. Don't worry." Amazing. It was the worst of days, but Heidi, often literally, held our hands through the whole ordeal. She was a teacher, a caretaker, and a friend. And a complete rockstar. By the end, we all agreed that she did exactly as she promised she would do. In her shift, she solved it all and walked me through on the whiteboard what was needed to proceed after she left. My girlfriend and I were so sad to see her go but thrilled to see on the BWFH tv screen an opportunity to nominate her for the DAISY Award. She made such an impact on us that I can't imagine how many more lives she impacts each 8-hour shift. Thanks so much to Heidi!