Brandi Brooks
June 2017
Brandi
Brooks
,
RN, BSN
4NW Telemetry, Cardiology
Saint Vincent Hospital, Allgeheny Health Network
Erie
,
PA
United States

 

 

 

When my mother unexpectedly passed away, Brandi was her nurse, which I am forever grateful for. Mom had fallen earlier that day and the doctors were keeping her overnight as a precaution. The family all came in to see her and all was well. Brandi explained to us that mom was doing fine, no broken bones, CT scan was normal, x rays were good and so was the blood work, and she would probably go home tomorrow.
We left knowing that mom was in good hands with Brandi watching over her. Later that evening, I got a call from the doctor, saying mom had taken a turn for the worse and we had better come in right away, her time was limited. When my husband and I got to the hospital, my sister and niece were at mom's bedside. Brandi was waiting at the nurse's station for me. As soon as Brandi saw me get off the elevator, she came running over, grabbed my hand and said "we had better run, she may only have a few moments left, she has been waiting for you."
Brandi said that they gave her something to make her comfortable, and even though she is not awake she can still hear me. I told mom that I loved her as I was holding her in my arms and that it was ok to go to heaven now, and shortly after that, mom passed away. I will always remember the care and compassion Brandi gave mom and our family. And Brandi was right, mom was waiting for me.
Many many months later Brandi recognized me at the hospital (I also work at the hospital) and asked me how I was doing. At first I didn't know who she was, but immediately said "you're the nurse who took care of my mother when she passed away." We hugged and cried and she told me how my mother's last hours were and the conversations they had. At that instant, I felt a huge overwhelming peace and comfort come over me, knowing that an angel named Brandi was with mom during her final hours.
During mom's funeral a dear friend gave me a medal that said "there are no tears in heaven," but unfortunately I lost it. The last time Brandi and I talked I went home and was telling my husband about seeing Brandi and the wonderful conversation that we had and how good she made me feel and the comfort she gave me. That night I found the missing medal! There is no doubt in my mind, that mom and Brandi had something to do with that.
A year ago this Mothers Day is when mom passed away, and I want to thank Brandi for everything she did for my mom and our family. Her caring goes above and beyond her 12-hour shift.