There was a patient who was admitted to our floor who got an intense cancer diagnosis within days of admission. This patient expressed their concern regarding their insurance and how their spouse would be affected if they were to pass away, as they weren't legally married. When Abby heard this, she immediately started to plan a wedding for this patient and their spouse. She became their wedding planner and set a date, a time, notified the chaplain, invited the rest of our floor staff, and even went to multiple stores to get decorations for their wedding day to make them feel special. Abby came in on her day off to celebrate the newlyweds and made sure the day was as perfect as possible. 

***

Abby is one of the most compassionate & empathetic nurses I have met, and this story here is the perfect example as to why she deserves to be recognized. This week on OCU, we had a patient who was diagnosed with a new cancer that had already spread throughout his body. He & his long-term girlfriend were in disbelief with the news that was about to turn their lives around. As Abigail normally does, she took it upon herself to bring some light to this darkness. The long-term couple wanted to get married, and Abby made it all happen. She contacted the chaplain, arranged the chapel, bought a cake, decorations, etc. She showed up on her day off and threw the wedding. They will forever be grateful.