My daughter was rushed by ambulance to CHKD after she was diagnosed with type one diabetes, having gone into full-blown DKA on our nine-day cruise vacation. Our experience over the last week was devastating, and we had no idea what was in store for us when we arrived at the hospital.

One of the nurses who greeted us was my daughter’s nurse, Noreen. We were traumatized, confused, and tired. She was patient with us and listened to our stories about our hard week and my daughter’s fight for recovery. Noreen was informative, kind, and humble. I also explained that while on my trip, I was unable to care for myself and was 18 weeks pregnant. I had been cramping and contracting over the last few days. With compassion and sternness, she instructed me to be seen by the doctor next door.

Noreen not only assured me that my daughter would be taken care of, but she also arranged for me to be wheeled over in a wheelchair. I received care and was able to return to my daughter. With my daughter‘s new diagnosis, we went through the stages of grief, sadness, anger, denial, and finally acceptance after Noreen educated and comforted us. Noreen provided us with care and bedside service that we did not have on our cruise when my daughter went into DKA. 

I am honored to share how a special nurse like Noreen made us feel so comfortable.

Thank you, Noreen!