I had to have an esophageal manometry and dreaded it. I had one once before and it was awful. Natalie Rodrigo called me prior to the procedure to go over everything. I shared my previous experience with her. I explained that they had a difficult time getting the catheter in, it took three attempts. By then I was crying. Natalie listened to my experience and took note.

The day of the test, I was really anxious. Natalie brought me to the room. She was very calm and explained everything. I was happy to see there was a bed instead of a chair like the previous time. She asked what she could do to help calm me. I said a warm blanket would be great, and she managed to get me a warm blanket. She then offered me a scent to help, so I picked lavender, and she stuck it to my blanket.

She walked through everything with me. She was very calm, soothing, and empathetic. Then it began. She remembered that I had said they were able to get the catheter in my right nostril, so that’s where she started. She walked me calmly through it until it was placed. It wasn’t bad at all. She walked me through every single swallow. I couldn’t believe that within ten minutes, it was all over. She then removed that horrible catheter.

I was so relieved I broke down and cried. Natalie gave me the most amazing hug! I needed it. I cannot say enough of her care. She was like an angel. I will always remember her amazing care. She needs to be recognized for who she is and the amazing nurse that she is. There are simply not enough words, not enough paper, not enough time, and I will forever hold a place in my heart for the nurse Natalie Rodrigo.