It is very difficult to watch someone I love suffer from an incurable disease. It was even more difficult when he was struck down with pneumonia that further intensified his suffering. Gordana is an Extraordinary Nurse. She absolutely made me feel like my husband was her top priority, even though I was fully aware she had several patients under her care. She not only came when he called, but she also checked in regularly. She let him sleep when he was able, knowing he was up and down through the night. She consulted with doctors to request more/different medicines to make him more comfortable. She followed through on the requests he made. She followed through on her word, when she said she would be back, she was back.
My husband is not a complainer, but he can be demanding. He can also be difficult with medical staff when he mentally "checks out," leaving me to answer even simple questions (like his name). Gordana took all this in stride. She was compassionate and caring and gentle when she needed to be and a little tougher when the situation required. She always had a minute for me to ask more questions. She explained everything. I felt her compassion when he went for yet another diagnostic procedure and she sensed I needed a break. She suggested I not escort him this time but go grab lunch. Ultimately, she was able to make my husband smile with her easy conversation. Those moments are few, far between, and precious.
Most importantly, Gordana gave me confidence in her skills, of her colleague's skills, and in the doctors and the hospital. She made me understand it is one big team, one goal, get them well enough to come home. I left each night knowing my husband was in capable hands. Gordana's technical skills make her an excellent nurse, her heart makes her extraordinary.