Kelsi advocated for me from the moment I arrived. Although I was discharged with instructions to follow up in 1 to 2 weeks, I called back hours later with additional concerns and spoke to Kelsi. She recognized the danger immediately. She advised me to call Hematology first thing when they opened at 8:00 am and to get an appointment as soon as possible because my numbers were critical.

She told me, "Do not wait!” She was right. Less than 24 hours later, my platelet count tanked to an immeasurable level. If I had followed the original plan and waited weeks, my research confirms I likely would have passed from a spontaneous brain bleed. Kelsi used her medical knowledge to steer me correctly, empowering me to advocate for the treatment I needed and not to take no for an answer, even when the system tried to make me wait.

Kelsi, let me say to you directly: You likely saved my life with that one simple moment of courage. As I shared that night, my wife is 7.5 months pregnant with our first child, a baby boy. Because of your patient advocacy and clinical expertise, my son will have a father, and I will get to meet him. My lifelong dream of becoming a dad was saved because of you!

I hope this conveys the profound importance of your work and helps keep your passion for this incredible field alive. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.