Our hospital is always beyond capacity with more patients than there are beds/rooms available. As a patient with a chronic illness, this is not new to me and during this admission, I was initially assigned a hallway bed in the ED for the first 24 hours. Not only was I bacteremic but struggling with a constant headache with symptoms worsened by light and sound for the past three days. On day two, of my three day wait for a bed on a med/surg floor, someone knew I needed to be gifted with the compassion and kindness that could only be provided by Andrea that day.

My pain and suffering had taken a backseat due to the connection and bond that we developed on this day. I believe everything happens for a reason and on that day, Andrea needed me as a patient as much as I needed her as my nurse. Although she was busy caring for multiple patients, there was never a time that I needed to call her for assistance, she had already known and was available before I knew she was needed. Andrea’s nursing skill set is top notch, and many others could learn how to provide care and compassion from her. A great nurse does more than simply obtain vitals, complete assessments, and carry out physician orders. They calm patient’s concerns and fears, comfort their pain and provide a smile and positive attitude. This is what separates Andrea from all the other nurses and staff during this admission. We bonded on another level that day and I could only hope that our paths would cross again.

On my third and final day of waiting for an available bed I was greeted with a familiar smile and comforting voice that night. Andrea had already worked her 12 hr shift and agreed to pick up four additional hours to help in the ED. Surprised to see me still awaiting transfer, she cheerfully came into my room to say “Hello” and was able to assist with my needs while my assigned nurse was backed-up and unable to quickly attend to my need. Seeing Andrea’s smile that day provided a sense of comfort knowing that someone very special was tending to my care.

Andrea, you have a heart of gold. Please know that this personality trait cannot be taught but rather developed through life situations that help form that foundation. You truly are one in a million. I hope our paths cross again but if not, please know that you have forever positively impacted my life. I wish you the best that life can provide for you. Your mother, also a nurse, should be very proud of the daughter she raised.