I am a 54-year-old Stage IV Metastatic Colon cancer survivor whose rung the bell but am now searching for a clinical trial because my cancer stopped responding to traditional chemotherapy. I qualified for an immunotherapy clinical trial at Ochsner. After weeks of testing, labs, and other appointments, the day for my Infusion appointment arrived.

My wife and I arrived bright and early. I made my way to the designated check-in desk and was directed to the waiting area. When my name was called, I was whisked back through several hallways and finally to my comfy chemo chair. A nurse came and hooked me up to the trial meds. After that, things get fuzzy. I passed out, hit my head, and proceeded to have a severe anaphylactic reaction, which sent me to the ER, the hallway, and ultimately the 10th floor of the west tower.

Although all of the care that I received was good, I wanted to recognize Leidy, my nurse for that day, for the compassionate excellence that she expertly delivered on Thursday. From the moment that she arrived and politely introduced herself, her expertise and confidence practically beamed out of her. She methodically assessed my condition with calmness, precision, and a gentle touch.

She made kind and polite conversation, while systematically assessing the condition of the room, status of the instruments and displays, adjusting, and addressing any deficiencies. She then asked me about my pain level and whether I was having any nausea, quickly made the appropriate entries into the computer, and dispensed my medication.

Her quiet confidence and practiced movements as she addressed issues that she identified were efficient and effective. I immediately felt at-ease and relaxed in her care. She established a new standard and set of expectations that I will now have for my future providers. She was a consummate professional but also an empathetic listener who connected with me by opening up and sharing experiences.

I commented on her skill and capabilities, and she just quietly thanked me and modestly laughed them off. Leidy made me less afraid, anxious, uncomfortable, helped me see and move toward better things. She was engaging and immediately inspired trust and confidence. It may seem like i spent a long time with Leidy, however my experience was in 10–15-minute interactions a few times over the course of her shift.

On her last pass through, she indicated that she'd be leaving soon, but she would stick her head in to say goodbye. After 15 minutes or so, she did exactly as she promised and stepped in to wish me well. I thanked her for stabilizing what had been a crazy two days and wished her well. I was released on Saturday and have reflected on the last few days. I can say in no uncertain terms that Leidy does this with each and every one of her patients.