Even as a 51-year-old, going to the hospital is troublesome for me. My phobia of needles (which I know is so "out of whack") causes me a lot of anxiety and worry before and during any appointment with a doctor. When I went in for a manometry, my nurse was Janyce. As I explained my irrational fear of being there, not only did she tell me things would be fine, but she also listened to me.

Her eyes and smile let me know that things were going to be alright, and she cared for me even though we didn't know each other at all. After the procedure, I was scheduled to come back the following week. During that appointment, I was going to be "put to sleep," which means needles! Janyce was one of the nurses who called me for my appointment, and told me she would be there that day and not to worry. When I got to the appointment, Janyce was there, reassured me things would be fine, and later was my nurse during recovery.

As she wheeled me out, I thanked her for helping me and exchanged smiles. In a place where surgeries happen often and time is important, the "human piece" of work can get lost. Sometimes we focus so much on procedures and protocols that we can forget we are dealing with people and feelings. Having someone like Janyce working who shares a smile and reassurance is very special for people like me. I felt heard, and my feelings were acknowledged. I am sure there are many people working at the hospital who exhibit the same caring nature.

My experience was with Janyce, and I had to let someone know. She made my experience great... almost enough to be excited to come back. (Almost.)