I had major surgery at LGH – a double mastectomy with reconstruction. Thankfully, the surgery was completed and I was transferred to the PACU/ Recovery Room as scheduled where I was assigned a nurse named Doug. As I was recovering, I was more asleep than I was alert, coming into and out of feeling tired and a bit confused and generally quite groggy from a 5 ½ hour surgery. However, I was aware enough to be impacted (comforted) by Doug. There were many example I would cite; his care and concern, his attention and his kindness, all made a difference in my recovery, but one thing in particular impressed me.

As I was in and out (mostly out) of awareness, I felt Doug hold my hand periodically, so as to provide comfort, reassurance, and care while I was waking up. It seems so simple and yet so important. As a nursing professor myself, this is the art of nursing that cannot be replaced by any other discipline and unfortunately we have lost much of this art. I will forever share this story with family, friends, and students of mine. I won’t forget Doug and the beautiful (not to mention effective and attentive) nursing care he provided me. He also provided much support and reassurance to my family at a time when they were nervous and had a million (I’m sure!) questions. Every patient waking up from surgery should have a nurse like Doug; I really believe he was an angel in disguise and exactly what I needed that day. Thank you, Doug, you are a blessing to LGHealth!