I entered Apple Hill Surgical Center for a procedure with Dr. M. At this time in my life, I was mentally exhausted, broken, and physically, I had ignored my health since 2017, when my dad was diagnosed with cancer. When I walked into the center, the staff was welcoming and caring as well as obviously working together in a positive and productive manner. I would like to recognize one of my nurses during my stay at AH, because they recognized my needs. Not only current needs, but all the mental and physical baggage I brought with me that day. You see, I left my mom, whom I have been taking care of since my dad passed in 2019, bedridden, in hospice, in our home. I am her full-time caregiver. Apparently, I continued to tell my nurse I wanted to leave to go home to my mom. I remember being anxious and crying. The nurse took the time to calm and ease my concerns with their kind, selfless words. They also went out to the waiting room to talk to my brother-in-law about my emotional state and desire to go home to be with my mom.

When I was waiting in my room/space, I had to go to the bathroom. I walked back to the wrong space, and I felt self-conscious. I was laughing out of nervousness and was greeted with an empathetic comment that helped to lessen my embarrassment. After surgery, the nurse listened to my concerns and fears not only because of the procedure but also because of my mom’s situation. The nurse walked me to the bathroom and helped me in the bathroom. They eased my pain from surgery and offered me hope and encouragement through their words, actions, and compassion.

I felt for the first time in years that I didn’t have to worry about myself or someone else, even if it was just for a couple of hours. I came into my procedure with challenges and pain in my heart and soul, and I left with a sense of optimism and hope. This nurse’s strong devotion and dedication to their career and patients grounded me, saved me. I thank God for sending this nurse into my life.