I am a patient who had surgery here. I have had multiple surgeries for various things but never at Northshore. My experience from the moment I walked in at 5:30 am was incredible! Every administrative employee, RN, PA, CRN, CRNA, and doctor was calming and reassuring. Everyone came over, introduced themselves, reviewed my medical history and discussed the plan for this surgery. Walking into the OR is always nerve-racking. As I laid on the table I felt relaxed and at peace knowing that I had the best care around me. I never thought it would be even better once I was in the OR recovery room. As I woke up, Kenneth, an RN was listening to all my medical history and helping me adjust from post-op. One of the first things I asked for was to get out of the bed because I was so eager to get moving. Kenneth smiled and knew that was a great sign. I also asked him to get my partner. Very soon after, she arrived and helped me move about. Kenneth, whose name I thought was Nick, was a pleasure. After being groggy, I started asking for Nick, and then my partner said no that's Kenneth (which even Kenneth was answering to all along) until it clicked and the laughter was flowing. He stood in front of me and his other patients, always looking side to side to catch anyone's reaction or need for something. As I went to be discharged, I discovered my hand was numb and I couldn't sign the papers. Kenneth immediately had it looked at. It delayed my discharge by several hours and during that time Kenneth continued to support, take care of both of us, and talk with us.

Sometimes you feel so vulnerable when you are in a hospital gown with little to no mobility. From the first time I needed to use the restroom to the last, Kenneth was by my side, taking each step at my pace and engaging with me along the way. During one visit to the restroom, he mentioned his kids and I was so blessed to learn more about him because we both understood each other. His ability to relate to my partner and me made me feel like we knew him for years. I get chills thinking of how amazing he is and how after 10 years of being an RN he still makes patients feel like themselves, comfortable, at ease, and less in pain.