I recently retired from the United States Navy. It was one of the happiest yet scariest days of my life. Much of the fear and anxiety was driven by uncertainty. I was based in Nebraska and moved to Virginia after retirement. Just before retiring, I was newly diagnosed with epilepsy. So, I am in constant fear of having a seizure. My first objective after retirement was to ensure that my medical benefits were in order. I began the process of establishing care with the VA. This was a more difficult task than I had imagined. I called numerous phone numbers and spoke with several people but was unable to get the help I was seeking. I spoke with my Neurologist back in Nebraska and he suggested that I go in person to the VA facility closest to where I live. I took his advice. When I stepped off the elevator, I was anxious. My anxiety began to dissipate as a smiling face approached me. The nurse introduced herself as Nurse Henry and offered to assist me. I explained that I was a recent retiree who had been newly diagnosed with epilepsy. I explained that I desperately needed an appointment. I explained that I was beginning to feel defeated as I had been unable to schedule the much-needed appointment. By the Grace of God, Nurse Henry volunteered to help me. I know that appointment scheduling is not her job. I realized that she had to stop what she was headed to do to help me. So, her willingness to go beyond her duties to help me is noteworthy. I worked in IT in the Navy. I recognize excellent customer service and I appreciate everything about Nurse Henry. I appreciate how she displayed high professional standards as she obtained and maintained my trust and confidence. I appreciate that she kept and followed through with her commitment to helping me. I appreciate the advocacy she displayed in her willingness to speak up for me to ensure that my medical needs were met. I appreciate that she treated me with respect and dignity when I needed it most. I appreciate her outstanding demonstration of the world-class customer service that I hear the VA boast about. As a result of her efforts, I am happy to say that I have an appointment scheduled soon. My fear and anxiety have disappeared. I feel so blessed to have encountered Nurse Henry as her intervention may have possibly saved my life.

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