I have been a patient for one year fighting breast cancer. The first day I arrived at MVHN, I was numb, sad, angry, and devastated. I’m not sure how I was so fortunate to have Brandy to take care of me, but I did. From day one, she said, “I got you,” and here, on my last day, she still does- that was all I needed to hear!!! She really listens to her patients and gives helpful tips along with caring words to ease our fears. I’m so appreciative of Brandy and the entire cancer care team for helping me through what could have been a very dark journey. They are all absolutely the best!! Cancer is scary, Chemo is terrifying, but the entire MVHN infusion team is extraordinary and keeps us moving forward. 

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From the moment I walked into the MVHN infusion center almost a year ago, Brandy has been there for me. I remember waking up, opening my eyes, seeing your face, and hearing you serenely call my name after I passed out on the first day. You were calm and composed but ready to spring into action if needed. My husband still remembers how well you explained the situation to him which lessened his anxiety. And when I fainted at home several times, he recalled what you said and remained calm. He still remarks how thankful he is for you. He lets me go to my infusions alone in part because he trusts you and knows I’m in the best hands.
       
There are so many scary unknowns with a cancer diagnosis, and having Brandy as a constant in my life is such a blessing. So much has happened since that first chemo day, and you have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly with my journey. You have talked me through my nerves, adjusted to make me comfortable, given advice about symptoms, shared stories, and above all, made me laugh, which I know is the best kind of medicine. I feel confident in her care because she is so knowledgeable, keeps calm under pressure, pays attention to the small details, and does her job with excellence. Brandy is so kind and compassionate and puts me at ease when I’m in the chair. She‘s always helping other nurses, and I can see how well she is respected by her team.
     
There is not an “I” in cancer, and I’m so thankful to be able to say I’ve never felt alone. I do have wonderful family support, but I also have an AMAZING cancer team which definitely includes you and has been a stabilizing force in the scariest time of my life. Even though I still battle nerves at appointments and infusions, I know that I can see your smiling face and feel cared for. You make your job look easy and effortless, while I know it is far from the truth. I’m so glad you make the choice every day to give yourself to such a high calling. You will never truly know what an impact you’ve had on your patients, and I hope that you are told every day just how SPECIAL AND EXCEPTIONAL you are. Thank you for picking up the broken pieces and putting them back together again. A huge thank you for giving me the best quality care I could ever hope for and for being more than just a nurse to me!!!