Last September, Hurricane Florence's devastating flooding caused catastrophic damage to my parent's community, causing a total loss of the interior of their home and the homes of hundreds in their area. As their main support system, I headed up the overwhelming task of recovery and debris removal. My sister had been diagnosed with lymphoma just days before, so our family was already reeling from some difficult news. My ICU Nurse Manager (Pam Riley RN) and our Supervisor/Educator (Pam Pluff RN) immediately reached out with support. The very next day, three of our team members made the 2-hour trip, bringing with them, donated cleaning supplies, storage bins and water from many other coworkers in our unit. A Shift Wizard message had been sent out to recruit last-minute available helpers and supplies. Pam P., Carol K., and Lisa V. spent their day off working tirelessly assisting me in removing debris, recovering what little possessions that we could and offering support and kindness to my mom and dad. Just one day later, I received the call that my mother-in-law unexpectedly passed away. At this point, I was beyond overwhelmed, now grieving as well and needing to get home to my own family. A very special coworker was already formulating a plan to solve the issue of my needing to leave my parents. The next day, this coworker made another trip and completed the clean-up for me. In the next week or two, other co-workers picked up my shifts without question, texted, emailed, called, ran errands for me, prayed, brought meals/gifts and sent cards of encouragement.
The incredible amount of support that was given to my family and me during this time was key in the outcome of this situation. They showed up with their care, allowing me to focus on my family and on my own needs. I am happy to report that, just about one year later, my sister is in remission following treatment, my parents are back in their now restored home and time has given us some healing from our loss. The care given by my nurse manager, supervisor and my ICU teammates truly helped get me through one of the most challenging times in my life. This is certainly not the first time that our team has been there for me or for others. I can honestly say the Cary 2W ICU team truly embodies the Wake Way and the mission and values of our hospitals. I could not be more grateful and proud to work with such amazing, caring nurses who give their all to their patients every day, as well as to each other.