From the moment I was transferred to Haley’s ward, after two days in the ICU, it was immediately clear that she is an exceptional nurse. Upon our first meeting, Haley demonstrated a rare ability to listen deeply and respond with insight and precision. She instinctively understood not just my immediate medical needs, but also the emotional complexities I was facing. Haley’s professional knowledge and skill never wavered—she anticipated what I required, often before I could fully articulate it myself, and addressed my concerns with compassion and expertise.
As someone with a science background, I particularly appreciated that Haley engaged me on a level that respected my knowledge and never oversimplified my care. She explained my condition and the interventions with clarity and honesty, fostering trust and encouraging my involvement in the care process. When I experienced unexplained abdominal pain, Haley responded promptly and thoughtfully—contacting doctors to consider necessary scans and adjusting medications. It was clear I was suffering from intense gas pains associated with a distended colon. The medicines helped, and she never made me feel as though my concerns were burdensome or unfounded.
Haley’s care extended beyond my physical recovery and touched my family as well. My daughter, K, has struggled with anorexia in the past and was deeply affected by seeing me, her mother, in a weakened state after significant weight loss during my hospitalization and preceding problems with nausea. This was a highly emotional and sensitive topic for both of us. During a particularly difficult conversation, K said she wanted to talk to a doctor or nurse in an effort to have them convince me I can let myself go, and that that would be ok. But it is not ok with me. I have always had a BMI in the healthy range. She asked Haley, who responded with remarkable empathy and wisdom, speaking to my daughter in a soft, calming manner and gently reminding her that everyone’s health journey is unique, and what is right for one person may not be right for another. Haley’s words brought comfort and understanding in a moment of distress, opening a much-needed dialogue between my daughter and me that we had never managed before. This is all thanks to Haley, who somehow was able to broach a taboo topic that has now allowed K and me to better understand each other.
Haley’s approach to care is, in a word, transformative. She embodies the very spirit of nursing—combining professional excellence with extraordinary kindness and intuition. Her dedication not only met my physical needs but also addressed the emotional well-being of both myself and my daughter during a vulnerable and challenging time.
I am profoundly grateful for Haley’s presence, expertise, and compassion. I sincerely hope she receives the recognition she so greatly deserves.