To begin, I would like to say thank you, though I don’t believe thank you is enough to encompass my gratitude. As a patient, I was treated so well that I have acknowledge the staff. Due to my state of mind I don’t remember exactly what nurses and the times I was with them, but I remember the care and time they took with me. Apologies in advance that I may mess up some names, I hope the nurses mentioned, and more, get recognized for their efforts. As they read this, I hope the people involved realize some of these stories are about them and how they impacted my stay. Some of the names I can recall are Kiana, Carlai, Aubrey, and Alaina. Again I’m not sure in what order and what times they were with me, but each individual treated me with the utmost care and respect.

The first day I was there, the day shift nurse was absolutely amazing. She was always there for me and wanted me to get better. She insisted I eat, even when I told her “no,” and by the time I woke up, I swear there would be food on my table. It made me feel at home the way she took care as if I were her own son. I’m not a call button person but anything I needed she was there within minutes. Given the stressful and chaotic nature of heath care service, it brings hope to see such time put into patients. My other day time nurse was more forward with me, not afraid to share her opinion, but was there for me when I believe most wouldn’t be, at least not with such tolerance. I remember when we would have some heart to heart talks. Conversations like that are what allowed me to rethink certain aspects about my life. I believe she had a son and was around the same ages as my kids. I was in pretty rough shape at this point. Her straightforward demeanor allowed her to be blunt in suggesting heavily that I shower. Though I could only imagine her perspective, I could hardly walk without being woozy. Eventually, I too recognized the stench and decided to solve my fragrant issue. In spite of it sounding like a small task, it needed to be done. I probably bothered her a lot but she was always there for me.

To even go further with her, I think I told her if they discharged me on the day I was “supposed” to be discharged, I would be back out on the streets with no where else to go. So me, her, and Carla (Unit Manager) talked and they did what I thought wouldn’t ever happen. Together, they allowed me one more day so that I would be able to make plans for my next steps. I can say, with confidence, that if they didn’t make that happen, I don’t think I’d be here right now typing this. The night shift nurses were where much of the gratitude I feel now resides. One of the staff nurses was the absolutely best. I don’t remember much because I was trying to get my sleep. But, she told me to always hit he button no matter what if I was uncomfortable and she was true to that statement. I wish I had more to say but I don’t because it was the only time I could sleep but it was much appreciated. I had another night time nurse that was what I can only describe as a God send. We talked about life, and it felt like I was talking to someone who knew exactly who I was, without having had ever actually met me . I used to sit up in bed and we would just talk. Though that wasn’t what made me think “this woman is a God send.”. It was when she asked if we prayed together. I don’t typically pray out loud and she didn’t either. She stepped out of her comfort zone and prayed for me. When she took over that role, we held hands and she prayed over me and it made me feel at peace. I don’t believe I will ever be able to thank that nurse enough.

I don’t want to neglect to mention the PCT that I’ll never forget. He was a young African American male and he worked nights. He literally was the best. He was kind, gentle and caring. He also told me if I needed anything he was there for me. You don’t get that from most PCT’s. Finally, to the day shift nurse on my last day before I left in the afternoon. You were simply so easy to talk with and you were there so much for me. Making sure if the phone calls came through to you or my phone that I was still going where I needed to be, making sure I was comfortable at all times. Thank you for the hug before I left.

To Ms. Carla. You and your staff are amazing. Your team needs to be recognized for breaking the mold on excellence. There are not enough words to describe the fullness of my heart. Thank you for the talks, I needed it. I hope you keep pushing your staff to keep operating with the heart and care like what I received because that’s what I felt when I was on your unit. You may be shocked to hear but I was a former staff member at that hospital. I appreciate that connection we had, given that we had long talks about my addiction privately. Maybe we became closer because you knew my struggles. You were always real with me and were always upfront with me. Thank you for that. Thank you and your staff again. A DAISY Award wouldn’t be enough if they gave one to every member on your staff. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.