I had surgery and was in recovery for 6 days. I work in the healthcare industry and know how trying and difficult it can be. As such, I was extremely fortunate to have had Sam as one of my caregivers during my recovery. The first two nights I was in recovery were a major struggle. I was in severe pain had trouble breathing sleeping and even sitting in a chair was difficult. During those first few nights which were the most difficult, Sam was there. She did not wait for me to complain or press a button for help but was consistently and compassionately checking in with me on more than what I would consider a normal basis. She not only asked what she could do to help but used her experience to guide me through my ordeal and continuously was recommending recovery best practices to help me be as comfortable and content as I could be. 

Due to the complications from my surgery, I had significant issues with swallowing pills. Sam recommended strategies that significantly improved my ability to manage my pain improve my quality of life and speed up my recovery including simple things like changing to liquids when applicable or taking pills with apple sauce.

The first night was the most difficult and challenging due to breathing issues and the pain. Sam sat with me and talked through the complications I was having. I never felt like I was just another bed she had to get through but like I was the only patient she had. If I had a question, she didn't just listen but answered and if she didn't know the answer she followed up in a prompt and professional manner.

I was on a very complicated regimen for medications due to the complications of the surgery and was struggling with remembering when each pill was due to be taken. This was especially difficult at night and was giving me anxiety and added to my trouble with sleeping and recovery. Sam took the time to sit down and write out the regimen for me. While it may seem trivial this was a huge weight off my shoulders and something that translated to all the nurses who helped with my recovery. This reduced my anxiety and helped me sleep better. I had a lot of skilled and compassionate nurses while I was recovering but Sam stood out among the group. The few examples above are just a small number of the things Sam did to support my recovery. She worked tirelessly to make sure my needs were met was compassionate and devoted to ensuring my recovery was as speedy and complete as possible and went above and beyond the normal call of duty. I will always be appreciative of the care she provided.