I had open-heart surgery 8 years ago and that is when I first met Susan Harms. Following my early Monday morning surgery, apparently, things didn't go as planned and I had to go back for a second surgery that day. I was sent to the ICU where I met her again. My family told me later that things didn't look good for me and I was tossing and turning all night. Susan stood over me, patted my back, and spoke softly in an attempt to settle me down. They were impressed with the care she gave me.
3-4 days later this nurse came into my room and stated that I was recovering well and asked if I wanted to go visit with another patient who was struggling. I wasn't sure what she wanted me to say, however, when I visited with the patient and saw their reaction I was elated and felt like I had actually gotten through to them. This interaction helped me decide that I wanted to be a volunteer with Mercy as payback for the great care I received. Two weeks later I decided that I had to know the name of this nurse who helped me during my stay.
With help from the hospital staff, they looked through my records and gave me her name. The next day I took her roses as a simple thank you for her professionalism and compassionate care. I tried to say thank you but was only able to stand there and cry. She gave me a hug and I left. I have always believed that God works in mysterious ways to guide and watch over people. Because of this nurse's compassionate ways, I feel God sent her as a messenger and in a subliminal way suggested I could also be a caregiver. She is a very special person, a special angel sent from above.