Some people possess qualities that are difficult to adequately describe. There is something special about them that can't be quantified. This is how I would describe my experience with my pre-op nurse, Makeda. I was at Rush for Spine surgery. The morning of my surgery, I was extremely nervous and tense. I was fixated on the idea that because my surgery was elective, I was unnecessarily putting myself at risk. I have four children and was petrified at the idea of something going awry and leaving them motherless. I was choosing a risky option, in the hope of improving my quality of life, and I was scared. My nurse, Makeda, was professional with kind bedside manners. There was something calming about her, which made me feel safe, despite my extreme trepidation.

At some point, the anesthesiologist came in and began to explain to me everything that he would be doing and the steps that would go into my sedation. We came to a point where he explained to me the very low, but inherent risk in any kind of surgery. Though the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death is extremely low, my brain fixated on the fact that such occurrences do happen, however rarely. This was something I was painfully aware of. Sixteen years ago, my father-in-law developed acute respiratory distress syndrome following hip replacement surgery. He spent six weeks on a ventilator before passing away from complications related to the surgery. He never came home. Makeda and the anesthesiologist listened attentively. Without denying the risk, both were kind, supportive, and reassuring.

As the time for surgery drew closer, I found myself sobbing quietly. Upon noticing my state, Makeda asked if I wanted to be alone with my husband, and I told her I did not; she was welcome to continue what she was doing. Makeda was the perfect blend of professionalism and kindness. She had a very calming air about herself that helped put me at ease. In a situation where my fear could have escalated, she kept me calm and positive, just by her presence.

When I awoke in recovery, she was there like an old friend. She has no way of knowing what a difference she made in my life that day. I will forever be grateful to her.