Kaitlynn was the best nurse I have ever had taking care of me. I suffer from CRPS and have had my share of stays in hospitals. While I have had many great nurses, especially my experiences at Elmhurst Hospital, Kaitlynn was exceptional. She went above and beyond to advocate for me and help me during my time in the ICU. I had what is considered to be a routine knee replacement. However, within hours of arriving to the orthopedic unit for what was expected to be a one-night stay, I experienced a severe CRPS reaction. The pain and swelling was so abnormal and concerning, I was moved to the ICU. There I could be better monitored and stronger and more effective medications (for treating severe CRPS) could be administered. Ketamine IV was started. Unfortunately, this treatment alone failed. At this time, Lidocaine was added to my IV. Thankfully, I turned the corner.

A CRPS crisis is terrifying. I have experienced several, many that have led to meningitis and in a touch and go, life or death situation. I was so scared. However, throughout all of this, Kaitlynn stayed by my side. She comforted me. She talked to me like a "real" person. She showed compassion and support. Treated me with dignity and respect. She and I even exchanged stories that made us laugh. She made sure my pain was under control at all times. At one point, there was a discussion of stopping the Ketamine and Lidocaine. She knew doing so would set me back and that it was too soon to make that dramatic change. These were the only medications that were controlling my CRPS crisis. Kaitlynn went to bat for me. She knew and understood I needed this treatment. I don't know another nurse who would be such a champion for her patient. Kaitlynn managed to not only get the medications continued but the next day the dose was doubled! I improved dramatically. I know this would not have been the case if it had not been for this outstanding nurse. I have never had a nurse as dedicated to her patient care as Kaitlynn.

Not only did she stay on top of all my medical needs, but what makes her extraordinary and why I believe she is a DAISY Nurse is that she listened to me. She believed my CRPS was real (like lupus and other similar diseases, it is often dismissed or misdiagnosed), this alone not only put my mind at ease, but I truly believe was a huge part of my recovery. Although I have a long road ahead of me, I will forever be grateful to Kaitlynn. There are no words I can say that would come close to letting Kaitlynn know what a difference she made not only in my recovery but my life. However, I do believe honoring her with the DAISY AWARD would be a start. Kaitlynn is an excellent representation of Elmhurst Hospital.