My spouse was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's disease. At another health system, my spouse was given the diagnosis indelicately. He was told he had to quit his job and he was devastated. Due to this experience, he only sought care from his primary care provider for five years. He felt he was destined to simply let the disease process consume him and there was nothing he could do to slow the progression.

Lisa was our nurse assigned as we began our journey with this hospital and she changed his mind. During our visit with the Parkinson's clinic, Lisa was kind, and compassionate and she added the right amount of appropriate humor to our visit. She put us at ease as she explained the process of the program and followed up with us throughout the day. She delivered information in a way that allowed us to trust and hang on to every word she spoke. We left feeling confident in the process, the support, and the medical decision-making. In fact, my husband, who is most often very reserved, asked Lisa at the end of the visit if he could hug her. She agreed and I confess I had to turn my head for fear of breaking down.

Being diagnosed with such a life-altering disease at such a young age left my husband feeling lost, confused, and helpless. However, after spending one single day with Lisa, his outlook and entire demeanor changed. Lisa is the exact picture of the perfect nurse. What a gem she is.