Alice Blake
September 2023
Alice
Blake
,
BSN, RN
Neuro Critical Care Unit
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
Park Ridge
,
IL
United States
Alice created a space in the room where we felt comfortable to be ourselves as we grieved the loss of my dad.
We had tremendous care for my dad at Advocate Lutheran General in Park Ridge, and Alice provided care for my dad that I honestly don't have words for. During the short, intense period we had during my dad's time there, she was a listener, friend, advisor, and gigantic blessing to our family. Alice's bedside manner was the best I've ever seen, especially given the circumstances as my dad was in comfort care following a severe brain aneurysm. She "read the room" gracefully each time she entered as we wept, told stories, laughed, were curious about medications, were too exhausted to talk, etc. Alice was attentive to our needs - fetching chairs, water, food, tissues, pillows, and more. We enjoyed getting to know Alice some and telling more about my dad and ourselves too, sharing favorite travels, studies, movies, hometowns, and more. It gave us joy and comfort knowing that my dad would have also thought the world of Alice in the short time that we knew her. After my dad died, Alice asked about the arrangements we made for his body. She respectfully listened to our plans to donate his body to science and suggested another organization, Science Care. Gosh was she right! They have also been so easy and caring. Alice even helped us register my dad into their system. As we left the hospital, Alice again shared beautiful words of comfort. She complimented our family's love for my dad and how we honored his wishes for care at the end of his life. Throughout the entire intense 24 hours we knew her, Alice made us feel respected, listened to, and understood, and encouraged us to ask questions about what my dad was going through. Alice created a space in the room where we felt comfortable to be ourselves as we grieved the loss of my dad. I think my mom, wife, and I all would've wanted to hug her, but instead, we thanked her profusely and asked who we could tell about the unbelievable care she provided for my dad and family. Alice mentioned The DAISY Award, and I am honored to nominate her for this achievement.