I also am a bearer of the torturous cross of myasthenia gravis, which is a family member of the horrid turmoil of autoimmune diseases like Patrick Barnes had. Two weeks ago, I came into Overlook Hospital emergency room completely in crisis and septic, also due to my autoimmune issue. I was intubated on a beautiful Saturday morning. I woke up crying and so down in spirits as I sat in a full-blown emotional breakdown. Carolina ran to me with no hesitation and asked me what was wrong. Instantly she held me in her arms as I leaned forehead to forehead with her, I felt as if my lost mother was holding me, to comfort me like when I was a child. This was an amazing moment, this bond I never expected, but never have I felt this way. She made me feel like I can do this, I then wiped my tears.
She proceeded to kneel very close and reassured me with very inspirational words, and also reminded me how far I have come since the ICU, and that she will always be there for me, but that I must stay strong and be there for myself, my children, and to keep fighting so she can see me reach the happiness I deserve. That pep-talk was what motivated me to stand, shake it off, and move forward. She then speedily got me all my medications even caring for the minor detail of giving me fresh ice water with all my medications. Never once did she make me wait when I called for her. All these things, her way, her smile, her comforting, the look of care, professionalism and true kindness, made me realize that if there was ever a place I would choose to spend a good quality of life while having to fight this disease, it would definitely be Overlook Hospital and I would wish for Carolina to just be at my bedside, and I would know that is enough to fight through it all.
Carolina treats her patients as if they were her own family members, and she just met me. Take a moment now to think… if she impacted my life in one day, what amazing care she has already given as she works day in and day out at Overlook. That's why she deserves to be Overlook's DAISY.