Oftentimes our relationships with our nurses are short-lived. The care has always been excellent but it might have been a quick visit to a clinic or a stay in the hospital. My relationship with Manuela Santa Cruz started at the beginning of March and continues to this day. I came out of surgery with an ileostomy bag. I was so distraught with the thought of living with it for the next 3 - 6 months. Manuela came into my hospital room for the next few days to show me how to change the bag and made sure I had all the necessary supplies. It was such a stressful time for learning how to deal with the bag on my own at home, but whenever I had a question or problem Manuela was always there. It was no easy task since at the same time she was the only one in the department. All I had to do was contact her and she'd be right there. She came to ETC, she came to the hospital, she saw me in the clinic and she was quick to respond to all of my e-mails. Whenever and wherever I needed her she was there. She was very helpful but most of all so comforting and supportive. Soon after I had my ileostomy reversed in late July she called me to see how I was doing. She is now working in the colorectal clinic with my doctor so I'm sure she'll continue to care for me on my follow-up visits. In addition, to the excellent care I've received is the genuine friendship that has developed between us. I've been so blessed with an outstanding nurse and a wonderful friend.