Heidi Jass-Carruthers
May 2014
Heidi
Jass-Carruthers
,
RN
Palliative Care
University Hospital
Augusta
,
GA
United States

 

 

 

Just a little over a week ago, my father was brought in after being found in his home in full arrest. My two sisters and I have known for some time that time was short for him. While Dad never regained consciousness, his poor body fought for two days to breathe. We, my father and my sisters and our families, were moved to the 7th floor where Dad had exceptional nursing care.

Heidi Jass-Carruthers' demeanor fit beautifully with my family's needs. We never felt she was rushed with our dad or with any of the questions we asked. When we had difficulty with the partner of a physician on dad's case, Heidi was an advocate for my father first and his family secondly. Wow! Grace, morality and kindness all wrapped up in one provider of care. Yes, I realize a "provider" in healthcare is generally considered a physician. Heidi is a generous provider in the very fullest meaning.

The poem shared by the family:

"Being a nurse isn't about grades, it's about being who we are. No book can teach you how to cry with a patient. No class can teach you how to tell their family that their parents have died or are dying. No professor can teach you how to find dignity in giving someone a bed bath. A nurse is not about the pills or the charting. It's about being able to love people when they are at their weakest moments." --Unknown