This past week was my first visit to the Mental Health Department at the Anniston/Oxford VA Clinic. Meeting a new healthcare provider, especially when receiving care from a new modality, can be challenging at best. After checking in, I waited in the waiting area and settled in for what I assumed might be quite a wait. To my great surprise, the nurse came out and called my name right away.

Melissa was the nurse, and she was so very warm and welcoming. Her words were kind, her smile was warm, and her demeanor was calm. We chatted for a few minutes as she took down my medical history and listened attentively to my issues and concerns. I felt completely at ease with her.

She also did something that many could learn from: she looked at me when she spoke to me, not at the computer screen. It may seem like a small thing, but to me, that’s compassionate care.

Melissa certainly deserves high praise for her style, elegance, and grace while providing care to veterans lucky enough to have an encounter with her. A big thank you to Melissa, and job well done!