My mother-in-law was admitted to Aspirus from Pride TLC after a fall. It was determined that she had COVID-19 and Pneumonia. Shortly after her admittance, it was determined by the attending physician that she was not a good candidate for a ventilator. Basically, the family knew that meant that she was terminal. Essentially, that is when Nurse Shanon Feltz took over contacting us. We were blessed with that. The family was unable to be with B during her final days due to COVID-19 restrictions. That was extremely difficult for us. The feeling of helplessness to be there and comfort our mother during her final days was frustrating, hurtful, and terrifying. Nurse Shanon kept in contact with the family on a consistent basis. Even though she had many other patients (although she never said that or made us feel that we were imposing on her). She treated us like we were the ONLY family she was helping. She took AMAZING care of our mother. She made sure that her head was rubbed. She put her favorite music on to play. While B was still able to speak on the phone, she answered 20 calls the 1st day, so family members had an opportunity to have the one last "talk" with Mom. Without Shanon, the whole process would have been unbearable for the family. She assured us that Mom would not be alone at the end. She reassured us and brought us as much comfort as possible in our absence.
All too often people are dismissing COVID-19 and its effects. And yet, like many others, Nurse Shanon suits up every day and works in the "belly of the beast". I don't know how the workers at Aspirus and other facilities find the courage to do this every single day. But for those of us left on the outside - IT MATTERS! YOU MATTER. Thank you, Shanon, for comforting our mother and our family during the darkest days this year has brought. Thank you for risking your health and your family's health each and every day to do what you do. You made a difference in B's life and in our lives. Please know that and know that we appreciate it and you. Bless you!
Note: This is Shanon's 2nd DAISY Award!