Ashley provided extraordinary care for my mom, who has a complex chronic pulmonary history with non-tuberculosis mycobacterium, significant bronchiectasis, and subsequent pulmonary hypertension. Despite these diagnoses, my mom never required inpatient care until this admission. Over the last few months, my mom has developed shortness of breath and increased hypoxia.

In the two weeks leading up to this admission, my mom was getting weaker, had increased fatigue, and was unable to complete her ADLs without assistance. We had recently been to her outpatient specialists who were concerned there was nothing else to offer her. As she progressively declined over the course of the week, we considered hospice.

In an attempt to find her comfort and potentially identify a reversible cause, we came into the ER at TGH one afternoon. We had a mix of emotions and experiences since the ER admission. I was with my mom in the ER until the early hours of the morning, and at that point, she was awaiting admission to the step-down unit. She was admitted to GEDI, with Ashley as one of her nurses.  When I called to check on my mom, I spoke with Ashley and she gave me a full update on her, including her current condition, and plan.

To my surprise, I received a call from Ashley later that day just to notify me that the providers had ordered an ECHO to follow up with certain concerns. This call was unexpected and very much appreciated. Her call to provide an update gave me a sense of ease and trust. My mom also felt very safe and well cared for by Ashley.

Thank you, Ashley, for being an extraordinary Nurse! You exemplify what this profession is all about by demonstrating care, being an advocate for my mom, demonstrating accountability and competency, and showing respect for my needs as her daughter.