We first met Allie Tricarico when I was in the hospital. I had twelve inches of my colon taken out and an ostomy bag put in. She came in all smiles, was so friendly, and proceeded to change my bag for me. I refused to even look at it, but my husband was right there for learning. By the time she had cleaned and changed my bag, I was not embarrassed or ashamed as I was at first. Why would anyone want to see that bag attached to me? It did not bother Allie at all. She put me at ease and made me feel like a normal person with my little hitchhiker.

I was in the hospital for 18 days at that time, and I saw her probably four times during that stay, plus the day she came to explain everything. From June to September, I had blockages and ended up in the hospital again. Each time, Allie came to help me at my request. I know the other nurses could have done it, but she always made it a pleasant experience and reinforced that I was a normal person with or without my bag. She never made me feel like she was in a rush and always came in with a big smile, happy to see me.

Recently, I had a reversal of my bag, and for now, I am truly back to being me. Allie saw me in the hall and came to visit. She radiates love and happiness and is so well-suited for her job. She pairs that warmth with professionalism, kindness, knowledge, and an incredible ability to put you at ease. She truly deserves this recognition and is a wonderful representation of Mayo. It has been my blessing that she was the one who came to take care of me and encourage me. She is truly an angel.