I was a patient over the course of a few days and have to admit, I have never been emergency admitted to a hospital before. When I met Karmel, it felt like we won the lottery on who we would be seeing the most during my very unknown stay. Unknown what the problem was, as well as the length of stay.

She always came in with a huge smile, and such a warm and compassionate energy radiating from her. She always took the time to make sure myself and my fiancé were educated on everything. So many different tests were done, and Karmel didn’t miss a single step when it came to explaining how samples would be collected, the actual tests and why they are important to get done, as well as when we should expect results.

Karmel was also fantastic at making sure we didn’t go without drinks or enough blankets during every visit to our room. She even took the time to introduce herself to my mother and grandmother during their visit and made sure they were okay with everything as well.

I took the time to explain that I haven’t had much medical experience in the past and that it has given me some fears of the medical world. I also shared that I did not want my son, age 9, to grow up with that same experience.

After hearing that, when I was due for my next round of IV antibiotics, she had him come sit by me and so sweetly explained every step and why it was important and not painful in any way. Then, after she checked my belly and heart, she had him take a turn as well. It was smiles all around the room.

Being age 35 and getting a cancer diagnosis, it’s not always smiles. But that time she spent sharing knowledge and compassion with our son is truly the most heartwarming moment I have ever witnessed in a hospital.

From her fun, compassionate, energetic personality down to the fun socks, Karmel was a true gem to get to spend time with during my stay.