Chelsey Jewell
June 2018
Chelsey
Jewell
,
BSN, RN
Cardiothoracic Unit
Spectrum Health- Butterworth
Grand Rapids
,
MI
United States
Chelsey's clinical skill and her compassionate care exemplify the kind of nurse that others recognize as an outstanding role model.
Chelsey made a meaningful difference in the care of my husband after his third major heart surgery since March 2009. In November 2017, one of my husband's surgeons informed us that his descending aorta and aneurysm was very near the critical stage. Our choices were: have surgery now to repair or wait for impending emergency treatment. Of course, we chose the former.
Upon going through recovery, my husband experienced a stroke that affected his left side. Although a very healthy and strong-willed individual, he spent 7 days on the 5th floor, barely able to sit up on the side of his bed. His will was devastating to his whole family. We were at a loss as to how to help him any more than we were able. Although he went through a very difficult surgery, the recovery was almost more than he could mentally and physically withstand compounded by his paralysis.
That all changed on day two at 7 Heart. Meeting Chelsey, I knew she was what our entire family needed. She could tell instantly that we were all heartbroken, exhausted, and feeling useless, but more importantly, that C was a fighter who almost gave up. Within one day of her 12-hour shift, C was sitting up on the side of his bed, starting to move! They just connected! Stories of ice fishing, restaurants, hobbies, grandchildren, etc. were soon flowing like water. In just 3 days, Chelsey had C eating, exercising, talking and hopeful, something we could not accomplish. I was encouraged by Chelsey to go home and get rest, C was in good hands. I so needed to feel that was okay. The comfort I felt leaving him in her care was absolutely critical to me.
Soon, C was well enough to be transferred to a Rehabilitation Hospital. After 10 days there, he now is undergoing outpatient therapy there. Our entire family is still amazed by what happened. As C would say, "This is not his first rodeo," it is actually his 3rd. Spectrum Heart is such a blessing.
Chelsey just happened to be working 3 straight 12 hour shifts and entered C's life and our family's life at the most crucial time. I do believe and have always believed that, "There is a season and a reason" for all things through God. I also believe that, as humans, we have a responsibility to attempt the best for ourselves, family and others.
Chelsey made a meaningful difference in the care of my husband after his third major heart surgery since March 2009. In November 2017, one of my husband's surgeons informed us that his descending aorta and aneurysm was very near the critical stage. Our choices were: have surgery now to repair or wait for impending emergency treatment. Of course, we chose the former.
Upon going through recovery, my husband experienced a stroke that affected his left side. Although a very healthy and strong-willed individual, he spent 7 days on the 5th floor, barely able to sit up on the side of his bed. His will was devastating to his whole family. We were at a loss as to how to help him any more than we were able. Although he went through a very difficult surgery, the recovery was almost more than he could mentally and physically withstand compounded by his paralysis.
That all changed on day two at 7 Heart. Meeting Chelsey, I knew she was what our entire family needed. She could tell instantly that we were all heartbroken, exhausted, and feeling useless, but more importantly, that C was a fighter who almost gave up. Within one day of her 12-hour shift, C was sitting up on the side of his bed, starting to move! They just connected! Stories of ice fishing, restaurants, hobbies, grandchildren, etc. were soon flowing like water. In just 3 days, Chelsey had C eating, exercising, talking and hopeful, something we could not accomplish. I was encouraged by Chelsey to go home and get rest, C was in good hands. I so needed to feel that was okay. The comfort I felt leaving him in her care was absolutely critical to me.
Soon, C was well enough to be transferred to a Rehabilitation Hospital. After 10 days there, he now is undergoing outpatient therapy there. Our entire family is still amazed by what happened. As C would say, "This is not his first rodeo," it is actually his 3rd. Spectrum Heart is such a blessing.
Chelsey just happened to be working 3 straight 12 hour shifts and entered C's life and our family's life at the most crucial time. I do believe and have always believed that, "There is a season and a reason" for all things through God. I also believe that, as humans, we have a responsibility to attempt the best for ourselves, family and others.