I was transferred to the Med/Surg unit after my hysterectomy surgery. While in the recovery room, Faith came with her mentor to receive the report on me and to transfer me to Med/Surg. My nurse told her a funny joke/name about a small procedure I had that day in addition to my hysterectomy and I chimed in to clarify and everyone laughed about it.

Before I knew it, I was on Med/Surg and settled into my room. Faith was very attentive, and we went through her required work, questionnaires, vitals, etc. I asked if my husband could stay the night with me and indicated she would need to check that out and later when I asked again, I was told that he couldn't and she said she was sorry for it. She made sure I had the menu, phone, call button, and ice water and that I was welcome to call her when I needed her. Faith was absolutely lovely that day. We laughed and giggled about so many different things during the time she spent with me. She spoke easily to me and even shared some of her own personal life with me while she went about doing her work for me. Near the end of her shift, she came in to say goodnight and mentioned that she had to work the next day. I asked if she was able to request patient assignments and if she wouldn't mind being my nurse again. She said she would love to and would go and see if she could request me.

Faith is just starting out in her nursing career and wasn't afraid to admit it. Most are probably nervous about getting a brand new nurse, but I felt completely at ease with her decisions for me, her care for me, and her bedside manner. Later in the evening, after my husband left for a short time before coming back until the visiting hours were over, she said to me, "I am sorry your husband couldn't stay. There are qualifications for a spouse to stay with a loved one here, and I didn't want to diminish your reason as not enough." Those were the loveliest words - and she had many.

The next morning, I waited to see if Faith was successful in getting re-assigned to me, and when the LNA came in and began writing on the board, I began holding my breath and was so glad to see her name again. I had a bit of a rough evening, and I was so happy to know that I would see her again before I left. There were many admissions apparently the night before, and I didn't see her for a good long while, but when she came in, she already knew how I was feeling because of my night RN and was quick to apologize and see what she could do to facilitate a faster discharge. During that time, she was in and out and cheerful every time. I knew she was busy and that there were other patients who needed her besides me, but that never showed on her face. Every time she entered my room, she had a lovely smile on her face and greeted me cheerfully - like I was the only one she had to care about. When it was finally time to be discharged, I couldn't help but give her the biggest Mom hug.

Faith - you have an infectious laugh and carefree attitude to go along with your gentle touch. You chose the right profession. You are a caring nurse, and I know you will go far. I wish you all the best in everything you do.