Assuming the care of a long-term complicated post-operative patient, Celeste set out with determination to turn his complex stay around. The patient was weeks into his stay, supported by two life-sustaining cardiac assist devices, a tracheostomy, and a whole lot of time in bed. Celeste noted this patient was becoming depressed and refusing to work with physical therapy.

Immediately connecting with him, she began helping him with a plan for rehabilitation and recovery. Celeste understood the importance of first getting this patient moving. She collaborated with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and respiratory therapy, gathering all the necessary resources to make this “adventure” happen. Each day brought progression with a targeted approach, facilitating a sense of achievement, starting with a goal of getting to the side of the bed and then advancing to the chair in small increments. This led to baby steps in the room, all with heartfelt encouragement and celebrations. Eventually, this patient’s strength grew, and his spirits lifted somewhat, but Celeste did not stop there. Next was a scheduled “field trip.” Making everything quite the adventure, she gathered necessary troops and off to the “bridge” she went with the patient. Celeste, the patient, and the team enjoyed a visual tour of the sun, the city, and the river. 

The beauty in Celeste is not just that she makes these opportunities happen—it’s what she does with them. She intentionally learns from and listens to her patients. 

As the patient had a tracheostomy, she made sure he had his communication board, so that they could have a meaningful conversation. She asked him about things outside the hospital. Where was he from? Did he have pets at home? What were some of his favorite things to do? The patient was so kind and thoughtful in how he responded. One could immediately sense how he needed this communication that was not about his medical care. Leaving no detail unattended, Celeste arranged for Dogs on Call to meet them “on the bridge.” After receiving a little furry encouragement, he returned to his room, a little different- a little more positive… with a smile here and there. This was a direct result of how holistically and lovingly Celeste served this man. As days turned into weeks, she always prioritized getting him out of bed and out of his room. Although he wasn’t yet ready to walk, Celeste wheeled him around, taking in the sights and receiving raucous cheers from providers and nurses. 

One evening, Celeste sensed the patient was a little down, more so than usual. When asked what was wrong, he told her that he had missed his mom and that he would like to talk to her. Recognizing the communication challenge with his tracheostomy, she called his mom and chatted with her about his care. She explained he wouldn’t be able to talk to her, but that he would be able to hear everything she was saying to him. In talking to his mom, the patient’s face lit up with her encouragement and support. Celeste learned in this conversation that his mom was well into her eighties and couldn’t drive. The patient seemed a little tearful after the conversation. She asked if he wanted his mom to visit. He nodded affirmatively. In response, Celeste collaborated with the unit’s social worker, arranging for a service to safely pick Mom up the next day and visit. She followed through on what she had promised, making sure the patient knew she was someone he could count on.