Gloria Bae, BSN

After practicing nursing for 42 years and nearing the end of my nursing career, I did not expect to receive a diagnosis that would require me to now be on the other side of the bedside. After determining I would need surgery, I was apprehensive of all the unknowns that were before me. I was now going to be the patient, not the person providing nursing care. It has been one of the most humbling experiences of my life to be on the "other side." I was living this experience as a patient, having all the emotions, concerns, and worries anyone may experience with this diagnosis. Surgery was an important part of my treatment plan, and there was hope that after the surgery, I would be able to go home the same day. I was very hopeful this would be the case. However, that did not work out, and I needed to have an overnight stay in the hospital after surgery. I experienced wonderful care from the entire healthcare team; however, I want to share my experience receiving nursing care from Gloria B.

I was not comfortable being the patient and being in this vulnerable position as "the patient." Gloria instantly made a connection with me and immediately made me feel less "vulnerable." I sensed her caring and compassion in our first interaction. My privacy (as an employee of the organization) was important to me; Gloria understood this and had a plan in place, which provided me much comfort. Gloria spoke to me as a patient experiencing surgery, not as a nurse with 42 years of experience. Her gentle touch, explanations, directions, and information about the shift plan were exactly what I needed each time she came into my room. I know I wasn't her only patient, but in each interaction, I felt like I was. I was so appreciative of all the teaching she shared throughout the shift, so I wasn't inundated with information right before my discharge. Throughout the day, she shared tips to help me recover. Tips I am still using today.

It is now 3 weeks from my surgery; I still remember how Gloria made me feel. Gloria embodied the essence of nursing: her empathy, kindness, attention to detail, and sensitivity to my personal needs reminded me of my days providing care as a nurse, hopeful that I, too, would convey to my patients the same attributes Gloria showed me as her patient. Gloria epitomizes the DAISY Award, recognizing nursing excellence, one patient at a time. Maya Angelo is quoted as saying, "You might not remember their names, but you will always remember how they made you feel." I will always remember Gloria's name and how she made me feel. I will be forever grateful to have experienced, as a patient, the tenderness and care we as nurses bring to our patients and to see how important the nursing profession is as an integral part of the healthcare team. I received exceptional care throughout my stay. However, it will be the nursing care from Gloria that will stand out for me from this hospital experience. Thank you, Gloria, for being such an exceptional nurse. You made a difference in my life, and I will never forget you.