I am an employee of AHS Newton. I needed to have surgery and since I know everyone at my hospital, I chose to have it done at Hackettstown. I am so glad I did. I was already embarrassed because I was having a sling put in and to add to that I have OCD. Just the idea of making a mess causes me great anxiety, of course. I had a bit of a bloody mess and Lauren immediately noticed me starting to panic and came to the rescue. I was so grateful for both her kindness and for being so intuitive. She took the time to help me to stay calm and address the situation.

For the rest of the time I was there, Lauren was so caring and attentive both meeting and exceeding my every need. I’ve never had a more patient and comforting nurse. Lauren is an exceptional and knowledgeable nurse who somehow made a normally awkward and embarrassing process a very pleasant experience. I truly am grateful she was assigned to me that day.

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I arrived at the Hackettstown Medical Center with my son. Eventually, we both walked to the nurse’s area in the surgical wing. We were immediately met by a lovely nurse who said, “Hello, my name is Lauren I shall be your nurse. I introduced my son to which she said, how good of you to accompany your Dad. Seeing my wedding band and pinky ring she said, “S you might want to take these items along with his cards”. He obliged and after we had a hug he left. Lauren turned to me and said, “I am your nurse. I will be with you through this whole surgical procedure. Come with me, I have a small room ready for you.”

She smiled and led me to the little area, explained the gown, and stepped out until I called her back that I was ready. She tied the gown for me and said, “I want you to know that I will explain to you all that will happen regarding your surgery. If I am going too fast don’t hesitate to stop me for I want you to feel comfortable with all that will happen. She had a sense of humor and would say little things to lighten the conversation. After a few minutes, she said, “Do you have any questions?” I said that I was chilly, and she immediately ran and brought a heated blanket.

Her demeanor was so kind and gentle which is so comforting for someone who had never been through this in many years. I had visited Morristown Hospital and Hackettstown Hospital during the 31 years I had been Rector of St. Luke’s Church in Gladstone. I took my responsibility as a visiting Clergy person very seriously. Lauren and I had a warm conversation about so much involving patient care, and it was so obvious to me that she really places patients right in front as her primary care and concern.

When there was a moment that could have been an embarrassing one for me, she handled it with such sensitivity. I think she is extraordinary not because she did anything spectacular but because she stayed focused on her patient every moment, assuring me that all would turn out well and continually asking if I needed anything or had any questions. I look back 24 hours and can truly say she was memorable in every way and did her job with sensitivity and competence. What a joy to have a person like this when one has a little fear of what is next. I left the hospital giving thanks that there still are some good people who are special.

Note: This is Lauren's 2nd DAISY Award!