I’ve had many good nurses and experiences with them while I’ve been here, but this weekend, I had Lauren as my day nurse, and she’s been extraordinary. Yesterday, she was very on top of things with meds, even taking time to talk with me. This morning, we had a very long and difficult discussion about my drinking and battling difficulties in life and childhood abuse. She was very fast at notifying the doctor, getting me as comfortable as possible, and preventing any further problems that are withdrawal-related. I’ve had a lot of hospital trauma with nurses who were very judgmental towards me and really didn’t act as if they cared for me. This has put a block on my opening up and being completely honest and comfortable talking about my issues and feelings. I try to mask the pain I’m in and lie the best I can, but today I was finally able to put my guard down and explain how I truly feel and what’s truly going on. I didn’t feel judged or rushed; I felt respected and cared for. Lauren is an excellent example of the kind of nurse I want to be when I become one. She’s compassionate, caring, loving, and supportive of you, no matter your situation.