I arrived at Providence ER on Saturday, and after two days in ICU, I was moved to 4N, feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and in pain. That’s when I met Nurse Rachelle. From the moment she stepped into my room, I knew I was in the hands of someone truly special. She wasn’t just a nurse—she was a beacon of comfort, patience, and compassion during one of the hardest moments of my life.
Rachelle cared for me for three consecutive nights, and in that time, she became my lifeline. I had four IVs—two in each arm—and the burning pain was unbearable, especially at night. At 2 AM, when I was exhausted and in agony, she didn’t just acknowledge my pain—she felt it. She took the time to carefully restart three of my IVs, ensuring that the discomfort eased so I could finally rest. She did it all with such gentleness and precision, never rushing, never making me feel like an inconvenience. Her presence alone made me feel safe, as if I were more than just a patient, but a person she genuinely cared about.
Beyond her incredible skill, what truly set Rachelle apart was her bedside manner. She didn’t just perform her duties—she made sure I understood everything that was happening. Every time a new procedure or test was needed, she took the time to explain it to me in a way that was easy to understand, ensuring I never felt lost or anxious. She answered my questions with patience and clarity, making sure I felt informed and in control of my own care. That level of kindness and respect made an immeasurable difference in my experience.
She wasn’t just checking vitals or administering medications—she was easing fears, offering reassurance, and making an unbearable situation just a little more manageable. I truly don’t know how I would have made it through those nights without her. In the quiet moments, when I felt vulnerable and scared, she was there—not just as a nurse, but as a compassionate presence that reminded me I wasn’t alone.
She embodies everything a nurse should be—kind, patient, skilled, and deeply compassionate. She doesn’t just provide medical care; she cares, in the truest and most profound sense of the word. I will never forget what she did for me, and I will always be grateful for the kindness she showed.
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Let me begin by saying everyone, without exception, at Providence is amazingly wonderful!

After checking into Emergency, my brother, B, was moved to the 4th floor. I first met Rachelle that night. She introduced herself to him and told him she would be taking care of him. She was professional, kind, and gentle. This young lady always called him by name and told him what she was doing. I like that she included him. At this time, his mind was still awake. I think it’s important to point out that she made him feel that he mattered, that he was respected. Rachelle did this while skillfully attending to his needs. Even after his mind closed us out, she never changed her approach toward him.
Somehow, Rachelle managed to make me feel the same way. She included me, heard my worries, and cared for my general well-being. With her attention to detail, she saw the need to have the doctor come check on my brother. I know she was busy with other patients, but honestly, I felt she was with me the whole time. I feel she was constantly checking to see if I needed anything - coffee, a snack, and most importantly - a hug!
Although we were alone in a hospital room during a very tragic, traumatic time, my brother and I weren’t alone because Rachelle was with us both. I felt a wave of peace rush over me because of her presence. Her skillful nursing kept B comfortable. Her genuine compassion and honest caring kept me going so I could notify his wife and sons. I am grateful I was with my brother at this time. Having Rachelle with me made everything bearable for me.
My brother was moved to Hospice, and the Lord took him home the next morning. He left Providence under an American flag with the most amazing ceremony that was truly fitting for my brother, a Colonel, UASF Ret.
I am so glad Colorado shared Rachelle with us here in Texas. I’m especially grateful she landed at Providence Hospital. This young nurse, with the sparkly eyes and quirky smile, is one of the reasons Providence is so great! I will never forget her.
Thank you, Rachelle, for being you!