After 87 years it came time for the inevitable. Too many trips to the E.R. and too many hospital stays. My mother was brought in on Wednesday with the continuing array of symptoms, COPD, pneumonia, UTI, and her congestive heart failure had flared up to round out the concerns. It became quite clear that the end of the line had arrived, but people needed to say goodbye.
In the past 3 plus years, I as well, have had my share of hospital stays. When I arrived to see my mother, Colleen Marks, the nurse caring for her, was as attentive as I have ever had the pleasure to meet. As early evening fell and she was getting close to the end of her shift, there was an order for medication. This nurse monitored mom's vitals and she had concerns that this certain medication would likely put my mother in harm's way. Colleen alerted the doctor and the next thing I know I am surrounded by a host of doctors and care staff. After 15 minutes her primary doctor arrived and joined them in a discussion about moving forward. When he came out and reviewed the situation with me, he stated that the first rule is "do no harm" and that administering this medication would do so. If not for the spectacular care and concern that nurse Colleen showed that evening, many family and friends would not have had an opportunity to say their goodbyes. I know some nurses will say that this is what I get paid to do, but his nurse did more. Colleen went above and beyond. I have never come across a more thoughtful, competent, and dedicated nurse.