My dad was a patient on SE9 after his spine surgery. Dad had severe post-operative delirium and was incredibly challenging for the entire care team. As a daughter, it was hard to see my dad in such a state of mind, requiring a sitter, restraints, extra medications, and completely out of character from how I know him day to day. As a nurse, it was a struggle to recognize the challenges he presented to the staff, both in his behavior and his words.

I had the pleasure of meeting Sharonda on post-op day 1 when she came in for her shift and rounded to meet my dad. I felt at peace with him in her care and was able to share as much with her the next night. It was this night that Sharonda shared she had been thinking about my dad and his terrible nightmares and how she could help him differently. She asked for permission to sing hymns and/or pray with Dad. The relief I felt in her genuine compassion and care is something I cannot put into words, nor will I ever forget.

As my dad started to clear, he told me he knew there were people who were only at work for the paycheck and some who truly cared. Sharonda stood out to him as one of the good ones, and he knew she genuinely cared for him. He even felt remorse as he realized that he had not been in the right state of mind, nor had the opportunity to thank her. Thank you, Sharonda! You make a difference in all that you do!