I woke up in ICU at Walla Walla General Hospital. I was in a lot of pain from a bad car accident the night before. I had not slept well because of my broken arm and just could not get comfortable even with the pain medicine they were giving me. I felt terrible about the accident, I knew it was my own fault and I realized it could have been the end for me or for the other person I had accidentally hit. I was overwhelmed with guilt and pain.

Lying there in my bed replaying the accident and thinking about the “would have, could have things”, in walks a young nurse, Morgan Beckman. My first thought was that she would lecture me about what I had done wrong or belittle me for still being in pain.

I was so wrong. She introduced herself and explained that she was going to check my wounds, assess the damage and check my vitals. She gently examined my broken body. She didn’t hesitate to touch my skin even though I was filthy from the accident. She asked how my pain was. She assured me that after breakfast she would get me all cleaned up and feeling better.

As she finished up, she looked at me with a genuine smile and said, “Smile! You are alive!” She was right, I am alive. I have a reason to be thankful that I am hurting, pain means I am still alive.

She touched my heart with her kindness. After she left, I honestly cried. Not because of the pain but because I realized how fortunate I am to be alive.

Morgan Beckman, I am so thankful that I had to endure this pain to meet a nurse like you! You are a true healer!