I had half my pancreas and spleen removed and had an unpleasant experience with the blood pressure needle prior to surgery. This was the beginning of my IV troubles, as I learned I have smallish veins.

The following month, I was admitted due to complications from the surgery and went through several IV applications.

The month after that, I was admitted again due to infection from the ongoing complication, and GI installed more stents in my stomach. My stay that month was an entire week.

My blood count was still dropping, and it was determined that I needed a unit of blood. During my stay, it was determined I needed another new IV location. I was scared of not only the idea of having to have someone else's blood in my body but the thought of another painful IV install.

Art Laycock was my IV tech that evening. Art's calm and professional demeanor with a side of folksy put me at ease immediately.

He told me we were in a partnership and that he would do everything in his power to make this as painless as possible. He did an ultrasound on my arm and showed me not only the vein he thought would be a good candidate but also showed me where there was a tiny gap in between nerves that he could slide the needle with very little pain. It was a miracle! He was true to his word - it was painless, and the vein/IV worked perfectly for the rest of my stay. Of all my stays at the hospital for my pancreas issue (4 visits in 4 months), Art was the person who truly exemplified professionalism and knowledge of his specialty, as well as made me feel seen and heard. He truly respected and cared about making me feel comfortable and sharing his knowledge to put me at ease. He empowered me to coach the folks who try to bypass the IV to make their own poke for blood tests. He is the best IV tech I have had before and since. I am recognizing him for his kindness and technical excellence.