I would like to take the time to recognize one of my wonderful nurses who took care of me, Claudia Huicochea.
I suffered significant trauma in the military that has left me with mental illness challenges, and I have a great fear of losing control of my environment. I have been in other hospital facilities before that have judged my health condition and linked it to psychology. I was not getting better and I was feeling very lost, out of control and helpless.
I decided to go outside of my healthcare network and come to Cleveland Clinic Martin South for my care. My nurse, Claudia, never judged me, ever. She took the time out of her busy day to sit and talk with me and to truly listen to what I was going through. She was so kind and compassionate to my needs and the challenges that I was facing today, based on the trauma that I suffered years ago.
Finally, the doctor diagnosed what was truly wrong and decided I needed surgery, not psychological help. I was so afraid to have surgery and losing control of my body by going under anesthesia, but Claudia talked me through my doubts and fears. I felt like I could trust the doctors and nurses here to take great care of me, and I proceeded with the much-needed surgery.
I have never had such a positive experience in the hospital, ever. All of my caregivers were amazing but Claudia stands alone as my angel. She even brought me a book to read about healing to help me on my continuous journey of healing today and when I leave the hospital.
Thank you, Claudia, for providing a safe environment to speak my truth, which I know has led me to recover from this illness.