I arrived in the ER on Sunday night and into the unit at 12:00 am loaded on morphine and exhausted from tests and lying in a gurney in the ER for 3 hours. I honestly didn’t know what to expect from Good Sam. As I have never been here before or needed medical assistance in the Bay Area. 

All the staff on 3C Surg unit were amazing and treated me very well. However, there is always an exception to the norm. After 3 days of wonderful service, and care from, aids, assistants, nurses, and charge nurses a specific nurse stood out, above and beyond all others, and made me feel extremely welcome.  

As I had no family in the area and I was very much alone being admitted to a hospital.  I said, after two days of care from staff, a nurse walked into my room full of life, personality, and many kind words. It didn’t seem to matter how many times I pressed my call button Lilly was there, providing medications, getting a blanket, water, or just connecting through conversation. I heard the passion in her voice, the concern in her eyes, and the expressions and smiles through her mask though (squinting of her eyes).  Lilly made me feel at home where I was cared for and in a magical way, I felt unconditional love that shined through her being. It showed up through her passion for her work, and the gentle kind words she shared regarding my treatment plan.  She shared a glimpse of her life to show the human side but not so personal that it was uncomfortable. Lilly’s genuineness shines through her actions, words, and body language.   

I had my gallbladder removed … and it was Lilly who reassured me I would be safe and have a good experience as the physicians at Good Sam are “amazing” as she put it.  I was scared to have the surgery and her words stayed with me and comforted me. 

I returned from my surgery, and Lilly was there again checking in with me, smiling, with concern for any pain, and making sure I was comfortable.  I can honestly say, I felt more at home through this experience at Good Sam and Lilly was the icing on the cake.  She is an exceptional nurse who deserves praise, promotion and has a wonderful future ahead of her. 

Lilly is an example of what an outstanding nurse is that truly sees beyond basic care and looks for what to do to go above and beyond for her patients. 

Thank you Lilly for being my nurse and looking after me.