I have been in the hospital for six days. The stay has been exceptionally painful due to a 5-level spinal fusion and 2-level revision. Pain management was working hard to get the meds right, but there were several nights where the pain was so severe that I was screaming and crying for hours.

For two days, Ann was my nurse. I know how busy she was, but she treated me as her only patient. She communicated with me about strategies to manage my pain and gave me some breathing exercises. She also took me for a walk to get me out of bed and stretched out. She knew that my pain usually started at 3 a.m., and she checked on me multiple times and helped me decide the best course of action for my PRN meds.

For the first time tonight, my pain was manageable thanks to Ann. Pain will drive someone insane, and I was on the verge. Ann saved me; she deserves the highest award you can give her.

Thank you!