Having the nursing team on 7 East care for me during my hospital stay was truly life-changing. Each nurse brought something unique, but together they created an atmosphere of safety, advocacy, comfort, and compassion that helped me survive some of the most painful and frightening moments of my life.

From the very beginning, Ruby stood out through her genuine care and empathy. When she saw me at my lowest, she shared her own medical story, which inspired me and gave me strength during moments when I felt overwhelmed and afraid. Her optimism, resilience, and kindness helped me push through painful and difficult moments. Ruby stayed on top of my medications, anticipated my needs, and made sure I never suffered. I rarely had to use the call light because she always knew when something was wrong.

Angela became my voice when I needed one most. I deeply trusted her with my care. She was always attentive, proactive with my pain and nausea management, and extremely thoughtful about my environment, making sure I had hot packs, proper bed positioning, and a calm setting at all times. Angela checked on me consistently, always asking if I needed anything, and even before leaving, would ask one last time if there was anything she could get for me. Her dedication made me feel safe, pain-free, and genuinely cared for.

When I experienced a seizure, Ashley provided calm, attentive, and compassionate care during a very frightening moment. Over time, she learned my full routine, my schedule, medications, likes, and dislikes, so thoroughly that I rarely needed to ask for help. She recognized my pain without me needing to explain it and ensured that I never suffered. Her presence prevented me from feeling isolated, and I am incredibly grateful for her patience and kindness.

The leadership on 7 East, Jimmy and Malathy, played a critical role in my healing. They regularly checked in on me, asked if I needed anything, and made genuine efforts to console and comfort me during my hardest moments. Their visible leadership and compassion created a sense of safety and reassurance that made a tremendous difference in my recovery.

Several other nurses also made a lasting impact. Arden was consistently attentive and dependable, making sure my medications and needs were addressed promptly. JJ brought positivity and joy into my room every day, checking on me frequently, ensuring my comfort, and going the extra mile to care for my partner as well. His extra attention to detail during dressing changes and his uplifting attitude meant so much.

Donna showed extraordinary tenderness and nurturing. Every time I cried, she comforted me, wiped away my tears, and responded immediately to my needs, even when she wasn’t assigned to my care. Her compassion and attentiveness made me feel deeply cared for. Julie, especially during the night, was incredibly responsive, rushing to my room during pain episodes, cleaning and comforting my space, and staying with me until my pain subsided. Because of her dedication, I felt safe and was able to sleep.

Adrianna was a powerful advocate during difficult moments, quickly finding solutions when medications weren’t working and treating me with warmth and positivity. Her small gestures, quietly checking on me and being prepared to help before I asked, made me feel like I truly mattered.

Likun exceeded every expectation by encouraging my healing both physically and mentally, communicating respectfully in a way that recognized my autism, and ensuring I was never alone or pressured in medical decisions.

Finally, Briana went above and beyond every night she cared for me. I truly felt as though she saved my life. She fearlessly advocated for me, contacted providers when necessary, and ensured my pain and symptoms were controlled. She recognized my needs and adapted her care accordingly, making me feel heard, safe, and valued.

Together, this nursing team on 7 East brought peace during chaos. They learned my medication regimen, respected my specific needs, and consistently delivered on their promise of pain-free, compassionate care. Because of their teamwork, brilliance, dedication, and heart, I was able to endure and heal through one of the hardest experiences of my life. I truly believe I survived because of them, and I will be forever grateful.