My husband underwent spinal fusion (T9-S1) surgery. He spent several days in the ICU before being transferred to the main spinal surgery patient care floor and then to Rusk rehab before returning home to begin the long rehabilitation process. First, a general statement: NYU Langone is an exceptional organization, and the care we received during this process, as well as during other medical issues that both my husband and I have experienced, was excellent. The common standard of care is excellence, and we believe that any health concern would be best managed in a best-in-class manner across the board.

During our time at the Kimmel Pavilion, many people impressed us with their attitude and aptitude, but none was better than nurse practitioner Franceen Alcock. From our first encounter, Franceen exhibited a remarkable professional demeanor that conveyed her knowledge and confidence in a manner that instilled comfort and reassurance, ensuring that the care being provided was precisely what it needed to be. She took the time to explain what was happening and why the care decisions were being made, providing continuity in our care that made us feel not only that my husband was being cared for and watched over, but also that I was the primary caregiver.

Two months after the first surgery, an X-ray follow-up revealed that one of the anchor screws had fractured, necessitating a repair. The repair surgery took place last Friday, and both my husband and I were on pins and needles as we faced another surgery. We were assured that it would not be as bad, yet until we experienced it, we remained concerned. After a 2.5-hour surgery and recovery, we were transferred to the 17th floor. The staff was excellent, but some post-surgery issues began to arise, including low hemoglobin, low blood pressure, low oxygen levels, a fever, and, of course, worry. Then, Franceen walked in. I welled up with tears and knew everything was going to be okay. She had already familiarized herself with the situation and, with her calm and confident manner, assessed the current state of affairs. She explained to us what was going to be done, asked questions, and interacted with us both with the same professionalism that we had experienced during the first surgery recovery. Seeing her, I was reassured that everything would be okay.

Daisies don’t seem sufficient in recognizing what Franceen does and how she does it. Roses, orchids, and bouquets of the rarest flowers may still not be enough. Both my husband and I feel that we have been blessed to have had her watching over him, directing, and taking charge of what needed to be done to ensure he had the best chance to recover and thrive.

Thank you, Franceen. You are beyond the best in our eyes.