Julie Gresham
November 2021
Julie
Gresham
,
RN
2 South
Kaweah Health Medical Center
Visalia
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

Julie was an advocate for our grandfather, as well as our family.
Our 85-year-old grandfather was admitted to 2S over the weekend after a fall at home. Initially, he was admitted for observation but quickly turned into a full admission due to a rapid decline in his mental and physical state. The medical team, along with the nursing staff, pushed to find the root cause of the decline and thoroughly sought an answer day and night.

Over the weekend, and into the following week, several late-night/early-morning phone calls were made to check on Grandpa. Julie never made us feel like we were an inconvenience and was sure to call back promptly if we called at a time when she wasn't available. During our visiting times, Julie was sure to come to the bedside promptly and walk us through step by step what diagnostics were being done, and discuss his current condition; Julie was an advocate for our grandfather, as well as our family.

Visiting him during this time was not easy due to COVID restrictions, and she served as our voice. Julie set up Facetime for family members on a few occasions and coordinated phone calls with Grandpa during the brief moments when he was alert so that we could get in what would ultimately be our final words with him. Between Julie and the doctor and the rest of the 2 South team, I cannot imagine his stay going any differently, as he truly received the best care possible.

Although the outcome was not what we had hoped for, as there never seems to be a right time to say goodbye to those we love, Julie remained consistent and transparent, while continuously supporting and advocating for his wishes as per his advanced directive. Our grandfather was able to pass on with dignity, in the care of some of the best nurses, especially Julie. I will never forget the compassion, patience, and respect she showed our grandpa, and our family during this time. We are forever grateful.