I spent ten days in the hospital recently for an MS flare/relapse that required five plasma exchanges as well as IV steroids. I never expected to spend so many days and nights away from home and away from my husband and children. I also never expected to receive such skilled and personal care from a dedicated staff of nurses on 7 Lime, and that one nurse in particular would become such an integral part of my days there.

My nurse, Shae, was there to guide me through those very difficult moments - when I had a central line put in, when I developed pancreatitis from the IV steroids, when my sugar dropped, when I simply missed my children, and when I was "over it" all. Shae waited and watched with me as my pancreas enzymes dropped each day, finally back into the normal range. As she administered meds or checked the weakness in my feet and legs, as she explained procedures or called doctors for me, we talked and shared the stories of our lives. She listened. She cared. And for those ten days on 7 Lime, she became the "family" I needed and missed. I looked forward to her bright smile and optimistic outlook each day. I looked forward to her stories as she so kindly listened to mine. On IV steroids, my heart and mind raced. I talked quickly and loudly, and not once did she point that out to me. She simply continued to listen.

Shae is a unique and exceptional nurse who often anticipated my needs before I knew I had them. When I could finally eat after three days NPO, I was taken to dialysis for a plasma exchange. I returned after lunch to find a note on my tray that said, "Do not take away." It was my first day eating and I was so looking forward to my vegetable broth lunch. Shae knew that and assured the tray would be waiting when I returned. It was, and we got a chuckle over how much I enjoyed that vegetable broth.

Shea is positive with a warm and friendly attitude (and a bright smile). She listened and shared each day, while always being sensitive to my needs. She exceeded expectations by proactively responding in personal ways including saving my lunch tray after I hadn't eaten in days, helping me "pass the hours" on long days without visitors, and being a liaison between me and my (many) doctors. She celebrated with me as my pancreas enzymes came back to the normal range. She exhibited empathy and had a caring attitude and allowed me to share laughter and tears. She offered me an exceptional healthcare experience, and the high quality patient care I received there was second to none. I felt safe and cared for at all times, and I was able to heal and get well.

St. Benedict said we should "listen with the ear of our heart." In looking back over my days there, I believe that quote exemplifies Shae's kind and beautiful nature. She far exceeded the role and duties of a nurse, and I was blessed to be in her care during my time on 7 Lime.