My 82-year-old mother arrived in the ER alone after experiencing a fall. She suffered from a cut to the head (4 staples), a torn rotator cuff, and fractures in her pelvis (non-operable). My mom had been visiting her nephew's ranch when she fell and she was without her immediate family, or a close advocate until I (her daughter) could arrive ASAP from the east coast about 36 hours later.

My mom was far from home (NJ), frightened, uncertain of the extent of injury and recovery time, and not knowing when or how she would eventually get home. Additionally, she was in A LOT of pain and unable to move much.

From the time mom arrived on Jeanine's floor, Jeanine was patient, compassionate, kind, and SPOT-ON with the timing of any pain management. She was a big part of getting the pain managed quickly.

As the daughter/caregiver, I arrived from out of town on the 12th and felt like a deer in the headlights. How do we get Mom healed? Where do we convalesce? How do I get her home? Where do we go?

As the hospital discussed discharge planning possibilities with us, I felt alone and desperate. But each step of the way, Jeanine was steadfast and a constant source of reassurance, superb medical care, and warmth. I could leave Mom at the end of a long day, knowing she was in the best of hands.

Fortunately for us, we had the continuity of Jeanine's 5-day work schedule. By the end of our stay, we felt like family. Jeanine's professionalism, positive and sunny disposition, and constant presence (she never "disappeared" or was hard to find if needed), showed us a different side of the healthcare culture that we have come to know in the East. She is an intelligent and confident professional who became an unknowing angel to two out-of-towners. We will never forget her kindness or her hugs.