I feel compelled to write to you concerning my Dad's recent stay in your Critical Care Department, and ultimately his passing on your palliative care floor. My dad is from Pittsburgh, and had been fighting Myelodysplastic Syndrome for some time, but had permission to travel to Knoxville for a grandson's wedding. While there, Dad became critically ill and was brought to Parkwest.
My Dad's immune system was so compromised from his cancer that ultimately he could not overcome his double pneumonia. We had two nurses who went so far beyond their "duties" in their care of my Dad, and their compassion and heart for us, his family, that I felt the need to thank them both by bringing them to your attention. You have two phenomenal "angels" on your staff!
Once my Dad was transferred to your hospice floor, we were greeted by another angel on your staff, Joy Rogers. Again, words are so inadequate to describe what Joy gave to my dad, my sisters, my niece and me that night as we watched my dad pass. Joy's heart, her compassion, her skills, her patience in explaining to us what would happen, her gentle kindness goes beyond words. Joy was such a comfort and strength to us as we watched our Dad leave this world and enter into Heaven.
Living in Pittsburg, we have many great hospitals, doctors, and nurses, but my heart has never been touched by such an extraordinary nurse. Joy will forever hold a special place in my heart, and in the heart of my family. We were so blessed to have had this special individual care for my dad and be by our side through an extremely difficult and emotional time.