Three staff members at the St. Cloud, Minnesota VAMC Surgical Specialty Clinic conducted themselves in such a highly professional manner that they made me feel safe, comfortable, and assured throughout my care. Carolyn Adams, RN, Kelsie Gagne, RN, and Michael Bond, CRNA, worked together as a superb medical team. As a team, all three demonstrated exceptional and extraordinary professional service.

One individual alone does not make up a truly functioning, cohesive entity. These three individuals worked together seamlessly for the well-being, comfort, and safety of their patients. In the military, it was instilled in us that the greater good is for the greater whole and that there is no big “I” in “we.” Carolyn, Kelsie, and Michael demonstrated the true characteristics of professional teamwork.

As a former patient who experienced pre-op, surgery, and post-op follow-up with the same original team, I can say they stood by me with a compassionate and gentle disposition, caring for my physical, emotional, and mental comfort through the entire process.

In addition, I was pleasantly surprised and deeply moved to receive a Thank You note signed by many members of the Ambulatory Surgery Center. It made me feel truly appreciated and reminded me that they genuinely care for the well-being of our Veterans.

Their professionalism, teamwork, and heartfelt compassion reflect great credit upon themselves and upon the VA Medical Center.