I was transferred to the 10th floor right after being told I likely have Guillain-Barre syndrome. I was unable to stand, scared, and unsure of what my future looked like. Upon arrival to my new room, Kara was there to greet me with a warm welcome. Kara took care of me through most of my difficult nights of my hospital stay. She had her work cut out for her, but rose to the occasion and took better care of me than I knew was possible. Kara got my first round of “IV IG” going while informing me and my loved ones of what she was doing and why she was doing it every step of the way.

When changes were made to my plan of care she advocated for me and really listened to what I had to say. After asking other nurses on other shifts, we could not understand why the doctors would discontinue my pain medications at the height of my illness. She did some research and explained why muscle relaxers and opioids were not recommended for Guillain-Barre.

Kara kept my spirits bright in a fearsome and exhausting time and I could not be more thankful for her. Kara’s passion for her profession is evident in everything she does. She was training new nurses while caring for me and her wealth of knowledge was on full display as she coached them. I know that with nurses like Kara training new employees, Orlando Health will continue to provide exceptional care for years to come. As my family and I said many times during our stay at Orlando Health – Kara truly felt like an angel sent to watch over me!

Kara – Thank you for everything you did for me and my family. Thank you for checking in on us even when we weren’t your patient. Thank you for making me laugh. Your bubbly and positive spirit were greatly appreciated! You truly are the best!