Erika A Whetzel
September 2024
Erika A
Whetzel
,
RN IV
Ambulatory Surgical Unit
Winchester Medical Center
Winchester
,
VA
United States

 

 

 

The sadness and heartbreak of my situation are slowly getting better, but I know for sure that I will never forget the kindness shown to me by Erika that day!
A few weeks ago, I found out that I was experiencing a molar pregnancy. I was scheduled to have a D&C procedure at the Sugi-Center a few days later. I think that morning I was the most scared I have ever been in my life. Every person I met at the Surgi-Center was very nice, but Erika really stood out to me. Being a nurse myself, I tend to hold my nurses to a high standard.

In the PACU, Erika calmed me when I was scared, treated me with respect, and fixed any post-op issues that I was experiencing. She called and made my post-op appointment for me, and I know she didn't have to do that. She explained every medication to me and let me know what to expect after I was home. She kept my husband updated throughout my recovery.

Most importantly, Erika recognized that not only did I have surgery but that I was experiencing a loss as well. She let me know it was okay to be sad and grieve. She shared her own personal experiences with me, which made me feel like I was not alone. She listened to me talk about my two daughters, the one thing that could make me smile during that time. She gave me a hug when she walked me out to my car and let me know that she would keep me in her thoughts. The sadness and heartbreak of my situation are slowly getting better, but I know for sure that I will never forget the kindness shown to me by Erika that day!