Donald Bellemare
March 2025
Donald
Bellemare
,
RN,
MS2
Lowell General Hospital
Lowell Ma
,
MA
United States
Don knew that that was not going to be an option, and in his true caring nature, he went down to the pharmacy himself and paid for this patient’s medication with his own money.
We had a patient on Ms2 who was a retired vet and a new type 1 diabetic; he himself said he’s not an easy patient to deal with. Don happened to be his nurse on the day of discharge. While I was completing my rounds that day, I had the pleasure to stop and talk to this individual. He told me about several frustrations that he had had with this healthcare system and how he feels that he is always pushed along. He then stopped to say, "I would like to say a few things about my nurse." Don had taken the time that day to give him resources that would help him post discharge, such as outside resources, an example of a diabetic diet to follow, and even helped him get a ride from the hospital.
Behind the scenes, what this patient did not know was that he was not going to have coverage for his new medications. Don knew that that was not going to be an option, and in his true caring nature, he went down to the pharmacy himself and paid for this patient’s medication with his own money. Don stated in his own words that “it’s the least I can do for what he’s done for our country”. Now, this patient did not know that Don had paid for his medication, and Don was not looking for a pat on the back for doing this; he was just doing the right thing in his mind, and that is taking care of our vets. The patient wasn't aware that Don did this for him. Don has always been a great nurse; he takes care of his patients with pride and respect, but this particular situation exemplifies what it means to be a caring and compassionate person. I feel lucky to work side by side with him.
***
I am nominating Don for the exceptional job that he provides to his patients. Don goes above and beyond to deliver the best of care. During the Veteran month, Don had a patient who could not afford his medications prior to going home. The patient's VA insurance and his MassHealth did not cover the medications, and without hesitation, Don paid for the entire cost, over $300 at our Pharmacy, to prevent a readmission. Don truly embodies LGH's mission, vision, and values. I am so grateful to get to work with Don.
***
I am a very difficult person when I am under a lot of stress. Nurse Don went above and beyond to make sure I felt seen, heard, and understood. Having a new diagnosis of diabetes type 1 has been a lifestyle change, and it can be overwhelming. Don made sure I had everything I needed in order to take care of myself once released from the hospital. Random acts of kindness can be the difference between life and death. I am truly grateful for crossing paths with Nurse Don; he truly has a gift in caring for people.
Behind the scenes, what this patient did not know was that he was not going to have coverage for his new medications. Don knew that that was not going to be an option, and in his true caring nature, he went down to the pharmacy himself and paid for this patient’s medication with his own money. Don stated in his own words that “it’s the least I can do for what he’s done for our country”. Now, this patient did not know that Don had paid for his medication, and Don was not looking for a pat on the back for doing this; he was just doing the right thing in his mind, and that is taking care of our vets. The patient wasn't aware that Don did this for him. Don has always been a great nurse; he takes care of his patients with pride and respect, but this particular situation exemplifies what it means to be a caring and compassionate person. I feel lucky to work side by side with him.
***
I am nominating Don for the exceptional job that he provides to his patients. Don goes above and beyond to deliver the best of care. During the Veteran month, Don had a patient who could not afford his medications prior to going home. The patient's VA insurance and his MassHealth did not cover the medications, and without hesitation, Don paid for the entire cost, over $300 at our Pharmacy, to prevent a readmission. Don truly embodies LGH's mission, vision, and values. I am so grateful to get to work with Don.
***
I am a very difficult person when I am under a lot of stress. Nurse Don went above and beyond to make sure I felt seen, heard, and understood. Having a new diagnosis of diabetes type 1 has been a lifestyle change, and it can be overwhelming. Don made sure I had everything I needed in order to take care of myself once released from the hospital. Random acts of kindness can be the difference between life and death. I am truly grateful for crossing paths with Nurse Don; he truly has a gift in caring for people.