Brian was my rock during my painful open liver resection surgery experience.

He worked the night shift, 7:30 pm - 7:30 am. Those were very difficult hours for me while recovering from a demanding surgery. They must be long and demanding hours for a nurse as well; however, Brian never showed it! He is one of the most positive people I have met, always entering the room with a smile and willing to take care of me whenever I ask him.

Why did I ask for Brian? Because he is the only nurse who helped me get in and out of bed with the utmost strength, positioning, and skill. This seems like such a basic thing that any nurse or Patient Care Technician can do. But no, they cannot.

He established a "Ready, 1, 2, 3" approach so our moves were coordinated and swift, which reduced the pain involved each time I moved. Brian's positioning and steady hands were reassuring and strong to keep me balanced and secure.

I had had a heart event while in the operating room, and again during my first day in my room 608. Consequently, my surgical heart monitor remained in place during my entire stay. I learned a couple of days into my stay that Brian had been diligently watching my monitor screen at the Nurse's station throughout the night, to be ready to jump to my aid should I need him.

What devotion to his work! What a comfort for me!

Brian provided most of the blood thinner shots I required twice a day, as well as many other medical necessities during my stay. He was ever-so-gentle with his injections, always looking for any spot free of previous pokes to assure my healing.

He periodically checked my pain and comfort level throughout his shift, in addition to when my next pain med was due.

Besides Brian’s nursing skills, I witnessed his leadership and problem-solving skills. When my blood pressure monitor (connected to my arm 24-7 for the first couple of days) malfunctioned, he made the immediate corrections needed so that I could sleep.

His leadership shone when the Patient Care Technicians sought Brian’s help. He coached them well for continuous improvement and effective teamwork, with friendliness, patience, and calm during sometimes demanding situations.

Brian carried out his duties with confidence and humility, truly an unsung hero that every hospital needs. I know I needed him.

Brian provided great care and comfort for me during a very stressful time.