I was hit head-on by a car while riding my motorcycle and was taken to the ER trauma bay to be stabilized. The next day, I had surgery on my leg for a compound fracture and critical spine surgery. After the surgeries were complete, I was sent to the STICU to be cared for. Everyone in this unit is good at their job, but there was one RN who stood out, and I knew from the first day she had taken care of me - she had a special gift. Beth was very knowledgeable, very caring, and had a positive attitude, yet never wavered from her professionalism. She made sure I had everything I needed to get me on my way to recovery. She not only took care of my wounds and my medicines, but she also kept me upbeat and positive about my recovery. When a new patient came in, she would always ensure me that she would be back shortly if I needed her for anything.

She always went a step above and beyond; she was adamant about being present when the doctors came in to discuss my treatment, and if she noticed they were not aware of pertinent information about my condition and medicines, she informed them at that time. A few days into being in the STICU, I was going to have another surgery, and she made sure she was present when the anesthesiologist came to discuss with me. She made sure they knew the situation about my breathing tube, and they decided to hold off until the next day for safety precautions. Also, she wanted to help me understand what procedures I had had, along with the medication I was being given, she was always making sure she was doing what was best for my recovery.

I was sharing with my wife, “I must have done something good in my lifetime to get a nurse like this young lady.” I couldn't believe God had blessed me with this person to help me through my recovery time. Even when she was working with another patient, she would take the time to ensure I was doing okay and if I needed anything, as she was walking from another room. When I was moved from the STICU to a room on 5 South, she was so thoughtful to take the time to come and check on me, and was concerned about how I was doing.

The last thing I would like to say about this RN is that she is a special person, and this hospital is very fortunate to have her as one of its employees. If anyone deserves recognition and the DAISY Award, it is this special RN.