My husband was a patient at NMMC. He was admitted to the COVID floor. A diagnosis of COVID is a fearful thing, but requiring hospitalization for COVID takes fear to a whole new level. I am a registered nurse and I knew how ill he was and the thought of "dropping him off" at the hospital was almost more than I could bear. I pulled up, he was assisted into a wheelchair and I was required to remain in my car in the parking lot. Later, I was informed that he would be hospitalized and I drove home. While sitting in the parking lot, I asked the Lord to send the best people to care for him. And God did just that! That night, Mr. Derrick Bush reported for duty. Derrick told my husband that he normally works the ER but that night he would be caring for him. His calming voice and confident demeanor were just the right dose of medicine my husband needed. Derrick assured him that he would be with him all night. He said that he may not physically be in the room with him, but every time he opened his eyes or looked up, he would be able to see him in the window. My husband bears witness that Derrick is a man of his word, he was never alone. God was in the room and He had sent Derrick to watch over and care for him. COVID patients experience isolation that is so oppressive and just an internal feeling of being "unclean". We don't want to make anyone else sick but crave interaction and relationships with others. Derrick was the caring hands needed at that time.
Derrick treated my husband as if he was the only patient he had to care for and that he genuinely cared about him. He was skilled in his profession, but he was much more than that. He was solace in a time of great distress. His training, knowledge, and skills were stellar. All these are necessary to be a good nurse, however, much more is required to be a great nurse! An exceptional nurse is one that exhibits what Christ commands, love for mankind. Derrick truly is an asset to the nursing profession and to North Mississippi Medical Center.
I recently read that the daisy flower is a symbol of new beginnings. This is the road we have been blessed with a new beginning! When my husband arrived at NMMC, he was gravely ill. He is now on the road to recovery. Our praise goes to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ first and foremost. And we will be eternally grateful to Him for sending Derrick Bush our way! In our opinion, Derrick is a true DAISY Nurse.