As a hospital nurse for 16 years, this year marked the first time I had to be hospitalized. I was forced to (begrudgingly) remove my nurse cap to don a department gown. This role reversal was tough during an especially frightening time, so I was so grateful to the team of doctors, nurses, and assistive staff for their expert knowledge and care.
That said, there is one nurse whose compassion, accountability, respect, and excellence stood out. While Angela Crowther-Marshall’s competence and expertise were evident from the start, it was the meaningful connection she established with me during the eight-hour shift we spent together that gave me the courage and confidence I had been trying to foster within myself from the time I stepped into the ER and was informed I was experiencing a rare form of stroke. After days in the hospital, on the verge of discharge, I amassed what felt like endless questions and concerns…I needed to hear answers from a nurse who was not myself. Angela lent a true listening ear, assuming nothing, offering insight and encouragement with my anticipated recovery.
What was most striking to me was her empathy, honesty, and willingness to share her personal journey with me – which helped build deep trust with me and my family and provided a vision of hope for the future. To me, this speaks of her tremendous respect for her patients and her connection to their individual experiences. This small act demonstrated that Angela is an extraordinary nurse deserving of recognition. She went above and beyond to ensure a smooth discharge, and I found myself home, not only with everything I needed medically but also with lasting optimism to take on the road ahead.
Thank you!