My mother is 85 years old, has had both knees and hips replaced, suffers from end stage rheumatoid arthritis and recently had 2 strokes. My mother came to the emergency room at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center. We were greeted by a receptionist. After some preliminary tests she was placed in a room. I called for a nurse and in walked Nurse Ashley. Her infectious smile and calming nature quickly put my mom at ease. Nurse Ashley cleaned her up and installed a PureWick system. Nurse Ashley made sure my mother was comfortable and received whatever she needed. My mom instantly perked up and they talked as if they had known each other for years. Nurse Ashley returned several times to ensure that she was okay. When Ashley left the room my mother said, “she’s special”, to which I replied, “you noticed too”.

In this day and time when suffering and mean-spiritedness are at an all-time high, caring and empathy are at an all-time low, and the elderly are treated with disdain and disrespect. It’s refreshing to see such a bright star in such a dark world. You never know the impact a warm smile, a kind word, or a kind gesture can have on someone. And though my mother was only there for 9 hours, it’s not about the length of time she was there, but the quality of service that Nurse Ashley performed during that time. I want to thank Nurse Ashley for the wonderful care given to my mother during her time there. Your demeanor, professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail did not go unnoticed and should be commended. I know there is only one Nurse Ashley, but they should clone you and sprinkle you throughout the hospital.

P.S. - My mother and I wanted to give Nurse Ashley a gift card, to show our appreciation for a job well done, but she wouldn’t accept it as she said, “it was against hospital policy”. This is another example of her professionalism and integrity. Thank You, Ashley!