While I had an extensive stay at the hospital, Ben was always there for me. He has this fun, quirky side to him that just made me feel so good and happy inside. It’s hard on the emotions to not only be sick, but to be hospitalized for such a long time; it really wears you down. Ben would come into my room and lighten the mood with his fun attitude towards me. I could guarantee I would be smiling and in a better headspace after he left my room. But for as much fun as he was, he was also serious about his job as my nurse and made sure I had the perfect care, even if it meant I might be physically uncomfortable for a few moments.

He was direct with me when needed. He also listened to my frustrations about being hospitalized for so long, and I wasn’t getting any answers on what was going to happen. One morning during rounds, he said quite firmly that “this woman has been here a long time and she not only needs solid answers but deserves them!” I can’t thank him enough for advocating for me. For being the voice that I needed because my voice wasn’t being completely heard. It was right after that that I started to get solid answers, and things progressed appropriately. I know what it’s like to be on both sides of the healthcare. I was an LNA many years ago. I found a way to tuck my personal home issues aside, and I was there 100% for the patients. This is what I have seen with Ben. I know during my stay, he more than likely had hard personal things happen in his life, as most of us do, but he tucked it away when he came into my room and gave me all the proper care I needed. Whether it was medications, personal care, or simply getting me something to drink, he did it with his fun, quirky personality and made me feel like I was the absolute most important patient in his care! Not only did I get a great nurse, but I also gained a great new friend!