Good Evening to you all,
Each week in this whole ordeal has been a new round of learning, stress, concern, delight, patience, and caring. Christy and I have learned to care for each other at a level I didn't think possible before this. The physicians, doctors, social workers, respiratory care, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and countless other doctors have helped to make this all possible. But the real miracle workers and true caregivers are the NICU nurses. At our hospital, they have been ridiculously wonderful.
From the very first moment of walking into the NICU for me, I was literally taken by the hand to make sure I didn't slip on the floor as I was walking in to meet Patrick for the first time. When the nursing staff placed Patrick on Christy's chest for the first time, it was as if a light had been turned on. In this tough place, a little light for our celebration of life. Just yesterday I found a note in Patrick's chart noting the first time I got to hold the young man for the first time after a week of his being born. It had a smiley face next to the notation.
They manage to be everywhere, taking care of everything, all the time, and equally out of the way to ensure we have some privacy in this sensitive time. We had an especially tough day on Saturday, and the nurse clued into this almost immediately. She sat down and took extra time to make sure we understood what was going on, and how it was helping Patrick to be here. To be here, is to recognize the difficult, challenging, and rewarding work these folks do. They are simultaneously on the front lines, and behind the scenes.
So if you are out there please know we are thinking of you as you help us take care of our little one. A special thanks to nurses that have so gently touched our hearts: Kathleen, Beth, Maryanne, Charlie, Jennifer(s), Becky, Patsy, Eileen, Kim. And these are only the ones we can remember by name. There are many more faces, kind words, reassuring educators, and sincere touches that have meant to much to Christy and me. There have been so many nurses for the past 40 days, it's hard to remember the names of all those that have helped. A thank you to all the nurses everywhere. It is because of you, a challenging time is made that much easier.
Word of waring for the video below, some of the images are disturbing however real. Please watch at your own discretion. I had absolutely nothing to do with the making of this video, but think it does a good job conveying just what you see each day in this place.
Thank you,
Andy
Andy and Christy,
ReplyDeleteOn behalf of nurses everywhere, we thank YOU. You have shown us courage, tenacity, patience, and LOVE in remarkable ways in a very tough situation. We have learned so much from you. You two have been utterly amazing--and wee Patrick is one blessed little boy. With deepest gratitude and love!
Your words are a gift to all nurses everywhere. I agree with you. As I watched the NICU nurses last weekend, I was aware of their gentle words and tender encouragement for you and the other parents. They were using simple moments to teach the new parents and help them along. You will be ready for Patrick in so many ways when he is placed into your arms to bring home. Love, Marmie
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that the nurses are the ones who make illness in the hospital bearable. Three years ago, I remember sitting on the side of a hospital bed in the middle of the night with a nurse's arm around me while I cried. I don't know her name but I'll be forever thankful. BYW, your mom is the finest example of a nurse and heaven knows she's had the experience with me.
ReplyDeleteSo glad that you two and Patrick have these great people around you.