September 2016
Andrew
Goy
,
RN
Pediatric Oncology Unit
University of Michigan Health System
Ann Arbor
,
MI
United States

 

 

 

Andrew Goy stood out immediately to me as someone who truly embodies the spirit of a dedicated nurse. Our sonwas diagnosed with a mixed lineage leukemia when he was transferred to Mott. As a nurse, I both enjoy and respect the fact that every patient has a story and a life that as caregivers we may have the privilege to enter and view. My sonis18 years old, had been struggling with mental health issues much of his life, and his stability was a key to receiving appropriate treatment. Andrew becamehis primary care RN after admission and immediately began to listen to our concerns and to our son. Andrewobserved his behavior and became quite a keen experton him!Andrew acceptedour sonfor who he was and embraced his personality, behaviors, and quirks. Andrew was able to identify times whenthe meds needed adjustment and when he just needed to be left under his blanket!
Andrew wasour son'sadvocate and was always very professional. He demonstrated a very positive upbeat attitude with him. Andrew attended patient care conferences and provided insight during health care team discussions. He showed compassion and provided a sense of calm for our son during his six month stay. Andrew treatedus with dignity and respect. He was very attentive to details, which are crucial in maintainingour son's mental health, and followed up on anything we discussed.
Andrew also becamefriend to our son, which is saying a lot becausehis best friend is Deacon, his stuffed bear. He established a warm light-hearted rapport withour son who frequently delivered funny one liners. Andrew always had a smileand made a point to engage him in some way. Andrew also learned to coaxour soninto eating when he could. Whether it was getting Ramen noodles from the store, bleu cheese, or something from the cafeteria, Andrew knew whathe liked and helped facilitate his nutritional needs.