I was a patient on this unit after coming from a decade in assisted living and a failed attempt to go home with home health. My life savings were gone and I feared I'd never be able to afford good care. I was failing at my will to live, had lost my faith in most Healthcare systems, and was about to lose my feet to amputation due to wounds I had acquired over the last few years.
My second night there, this nurse came into my room with the most refreshing tone and laugh. I knew she had a fun personality and was going to be just what I needed to lift me out of this depressed lull I had been stuck in. She made me feel human, something I haven't felt in years. She talked with me about my years past teaching and riding my motorcycle. She got to know me for who I was rather than the diagnosis listed on my chart.
I had mentioned I needed a brush as my hair was knotted and causing me great discomfort. She promised me she'd be back and boy did she deliver. Frankie not only brought the brush but she spent over an hour and a half washing my hair and ever so delicately combing out each and every knot which was no easy task. It hasn't been brushed out in years.
My hair is still long almost to my waist, something us biker chicks refuse to let go of. She kept asking if I was doing ok or if she was hurting me but also helped pass the time by making great conversation. Before I knew it, my hair was clean in a beautiful braid out of the way where I could rest comfortably. I have never met someone so kind and funny and able to manage so much. I knew she had a full load of responsibilities that night as her phone kept ringing.
She ensured that every issue was tended to appropriately and every patient was taken care of, not just me. That night Frankie restored my faith in the world. The next night when she returned I was not so nice to her as I was fearing my surgery that would be happening the next morning. Frankie continued to offer the kindest and gentlest care. She gave me time to voice my fears and adjusted her demeanor accordingly.
I wish I could go back and apologize for the wicked witch I was that night but I also know Frankie understood my fears and my behavior. I know that this nurse will forever hold a place in my heart as a friend. She is what compassionate caring and healing are all about. I wish every nurse could take a page out of Frankie's book. Her laughter, smile, and compassion for those in need are the best medicine life has to offer.