I came into the hospital with severe complications from the flu. After two days of feeling very depressed and thinking I couldn’t get through it, Marlena arrived. The moment she entered, she lit up the room with her light and energy. Marlena is a stellar educator and has the ability to practically educate patients in lay terms. She empowered me by teaching me about the healing process, which helped to lift my spirits; she clearly explained everything that was being done so that I could follow along. She gave me new insights to help with my healing. She even let me listen to my lungs so that I could hear what the staff was hearing.

Marlena is very patient and mindful. My 40 MEQ potassium pills were very big and incredibly difficult for me to swallow. The first time I tried taking them, I ended up biting them which left me with a horrible taste and my stomach burning. When Marlena stepped in, she crushed the tablets, mixed them with a little apple sauce, and heated the mixture up before giving them to me. Marlena is caring and loving. She helped to make sure others didn’t bother me so that I could get some rest and sleep. I said I’m sorry I couldn’t hug her, and so she came up to me and hugged me instead.

Marlena takes the time to do the little things. These simple acts can have a profound impact. They helped me change my mindset and be more optimistic. It’s the human connection that can make all the difference. I wish there were more people like Marlena and that she could hold the patent on what it means to be a nurse. She is a professional in every way.