Suzzete Maguyon
October 2015
Suzzete
Maguyon
,
BSN
Med/surg
WellStar Paulding Hospital
Hiram
,
GA
United States

 

 

 

There was a patient on our medical-surgical unit who was admitted and discharged several times over the last month as she was struggling with abdominal pain and the source of that pain. She has become one of our special patients as she and her family have traveled on this journey. Despite the uncertainty of her diagnosis, she and her family were very comical and loved to laugh with our team. The only complaint was what on earth was causing this pain and a recurring small bowel obstruction.

She and her family were together when the dreaded words were delivered: "you have cancer". The next step was identifying the source, extent of the cancer, and treatment plan by doing a PET scan. Her nurse went above and beyond to comfort the patient and family. Suzzete was determined to keep her and the family smiling during this difficult time. A topic of conversation was the patient's dog and the nurse's dog. They both have a love for animals. Over many days, Suzzete would talk about her dog, the patient's dog, and of course, the patient's cancer. She shared pictures of her dog, "Bounce". Every day that Suzzete was on shift; she always checked on her and again shared stories about Bounce which made both of them laugh.

On Suzzete's day off, she was spending time with Bounce and began to think about her patient. She wondered if the patient would like to see her dog; would that lift her spirits? She called the unit to see if they could bring her patient out front to visit with her dog. She would be happy to bring Bounce up for a visit. The CNL, alongside the nurses on the unit, secretly asked the family what they thought. About thirty minutes later, the patient, husband, and son were outside the hospital and got a surprise visit from Suzzete and Bounce. The joy that was shared through tears of care and compassion between the team, family and Bounce was an unforgettable experience. What a day!

The patient and family shared how much this meant to them, and that Suzzete will hold a special place in their heart forever. The patient and family shared that every nurse has delivered exceptional care and checked on them frequently. The visit with Bounce made all the difference. Suzzete and her dog, Bounce, have been continuing to see this patient after discharge. She checks on them frequently and visits as often as possible. She continues to offer emotional and spiritual support during this difficult time.