As soon as I came in, Nichole Machalik was very attentive to my needs and acknowledged that I was not feeling well. She was very patient and was very communicative as she was working. Specifically, she informed me what the medication she was giving me was going to do. She was very caring, ensuring that I was doing well and checking up on me.

However, another important part for me was that she would let me know that "I am doing good,” when she gave me some direction. This was very important to me because during that time I was having a hard time breathing and I felt reassured that I was doing my part to get better.

Even though I had been to the Emergency Department three times before, I felt that I was a priority and not a nuisance.

In addition, after this great team ensured that I was doing well, Nichole made sure to tell me that if I ever feel like I can't breathe to come in--that's what they are there for. That made me feel that the VA is here for me.

Thank you, Nichole!