I was a patient at RMH prior to and following spinal surgery. I arrived on crutches dragging my left leg behind me; unable to sit in a wheelchair. I had reached the end of my tether emotionally and physically. I have sustained broken bones in every one of my limbs, severed my Achilles tendon, and suffered an MI resulting in cardiac stents over the course of my 65 years; but until this most recent back injury, I had never endured pain of this degree. After a month in this condition, I had devolved into an anxiety-ridden basket case, tortured by his own body. I was assisted to my room by Mrs. Janet Harrison. She knew instinctively the best way to get me into bed without causing me any further discomfort. As though a switch had been thrown, she immediately put in motion, the care and support that would sustain me through the next 48 hours that was, for me, fraught with fear and trepidation of how this all might turn out. The sincerity of this woman's empathy for my suffering came through in every touch of her hand, every kind word, every effort to see to my immediate needs, and her reassurance that I would pull through. The mere sound of her voice in the corridor when I awoke in the morning as she went about her duties with other patients was in itself a tonic. "Janet's here, everything's gonna be okay". In the end, everything was okay and I am on the road to recovery. Mrs. Harrison was with me from my arrival to my release, personally wheeling me down to the exit and my waiting family.
Everyone that attended me was a seasoned professional and an asset to the Carilion system. I cannot conceive of or recall better care. To all of them goes my heartfelt and sincere gratitude. Janet is what in sports, is referred to as "A Natural". She was born to her career choice. I hope that young people who work with her, especially the NAs who might want to take that next step, take the time to observe and see what a dedicated professional looks like. She is certainly worthy of emulation. Although I knew her only a few days, I shall miss her and never forget her. May God bless her and cluster his angels about her every day. Thank you, Janet.