Jessica made me feel special in so many ways. As a patient on a psych floor, you are stripped of many things; most of which is hope – at least initially.  Jessica had the unpleasant task of telling me I had been made an “involuntary patient” when I came in voluntarily. The doctor gave no warning nor reason with which Jessica could explain the decision. It made me very upset; and, very abandoned. So, we talked, she listened, and I listened because there had to be a good reason. It turned out that the resident was supposed to have discussed the decision with me but misunderstood my attending’s directions. What Jessica and I found out is the involuntary commitment would get me into chemical dependency treatment sooner than later. This was something I wanted. While on this floor at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Jessica kept me laughing as I emerged from my detox hell. What was to happen was no less than spiritual for me. I noticed other patients much worse than me. I started to ask questions and Jessica gave me an education on mental illness that I’d never had. I realized how lucky I was to not have done the damage to my brain that can happen with the use of drugs and alcohol. 

With permission from my doctor, Jessica found time in her schedule to let me use my cell phone. As a matter of fact, she taught me how to use my phone to make a deposit. A deposit that was necessary to pay my bills before leaving for treatment. 

Jessica also made sure I had clean clothes to take to treatment. As she did some laundry for me. And when it came down to the night before I was to leave for treatment, Jessica got me organized. She worked all day as the charge nurse on the floor and at the end of her shift she came over to my new floor to help me (close to 2100). She followed up to make sure my discharge order was in, my prescriptions were to the mobile pharmacy (you must have a 30-day supply for treatment centers), and my clothes, suitcase, and other belongings were ready to go in the morning. Thank God Jessica stepped in. 

When I got to treatment, they inspect your luggage, and I found some Jolly Ranchers. Jessica must have read my mind as hard candy will carry this recovering alcoholic through treatment. I should also say before we said goodbye the night before my discharge to treatment, Jessica offered great wisdom and engagement. She said you are a great guy sober, and they don’t do this (the involuntary for treatment) for many, so take advantage of it – and I am. 

I have Jessica to thank for opening my eyes to my illness, others, and just how lucky I am. I have Barnes to thank. You did a good job when you hired Jessica; she is a star and a DAISY Nurse!