Marian was there for me at a very low point in my treatment both physically and emotionally. It was the middle of the night and I was feeling pain and fluid buildup in my throat by my thyroid. This made swallowing very uncomfortable and also made me concerned as I’ve been on a very strong antiviral and steroid drip for 14 days. Although she was unsure of the root of the problem she suggested I drink a copious amount of water and try to see if I could bring anything up. So I did and slowly I started to bring up some mucus so I decided to continue and also walk the unit in the hopes that would help and it did! It loosened a good enough portion of the mucus that I was able to rest. I was diagnosed with thrush by the Dr the next day and treated for it.

Marian was also there for me emotionally. My treatment has been an emotional rollercoaster and I had a meltdown that night. I requested to speak to a therapist or any qualified person but she initially told me my only option was a psych consult. Despite the emotional challenges of my treatment, I knew that would not be helpful. My goal was simply to have a conversation with someone that is not about disease or body parts but about the emotional toll of being hospitalized for a long period of time. Finally, towards the end of her shift, I begged Marian to be that for me and she complied. She listened, she let me cry and get my feelings out and she encouraged me and I woke up feeling refreshed and much better.

A human being is more than a collection of organs tissues and systems, they are a person with a story and Marian was able to understand that and help me cope. So for these two reasons, I believe she is a true DAISY Nurse.