March 2022
Lynne
Caldarone
,
RN, ASN
Telemetry
South County Hospital
Wakefield
,
RI
United States
I told Lynne about my condition, and she listened. At times I cried, and she comforted me with words of encouragement.
I was admitted to the hospital from the ER. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer after a biopsy a few days later. As you can imagine the news was quite unexpected and devastating. While a patient for 5 days, I was surrounded by an amazing team of doctors and nursing staff who took very good care of me. One particular nurse, though, stood out from all the others. I met Lynne on my last day. I was waiting to be discharged and for my transport to arrive. My husband was waiting outside. She could tell I was nervous, unsettled you might say. She asked if I wanted to talk. I told her about my condition, and she listened. At times I cried, and she comforted me with words of encouragement. I shared my concern for my special-needs son at home and how my condition is going to impact his care down the road which I provide. Lynne offered to help in any way she could personally; all I needed was to ask. Lynne provided me with her cell phone number. She said if I even wanted to talk or for someone to listen, a shoulder to cry on or even a helping hand to watch my son if I needed some respite. What an amazing human being! So kind, compassionate, and caring. During one of the most difficult times in my life, this “stranger” gives me willingly valuable time to comport me. Lynne gave me the strength and confidence to leave the hospital that day with the hope I can beat this and that I’m going to be OK!!! Thank you, Lynne!