After the oncology surgeon left the room and we all took a breath, Kristi was there to pick up the pieces we did not hear after he said your cancer is back and you have two months to live. I, my sister, and parents never heard another word out of the doctor's mouth. I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer 16 years ago, within that 16 years I was able to see my oldest son get married and make sure my other son who is developmentally delayed get established on his own. I thought my doctor was going to tell me I had to do more surgery and chemotherapy. My sister, parents, and I were left in complete shock. My nurse (Kristi) held my hand, sat down with me and just let me talk and cry. She showed compassion and genuine concern for my well-being. She held my sister and allowed her to cry on her shoulder. Wow, I only have two months left, I hope it's good. Kristi kept repeating with such kind eyes, "Whatever I can do please let me know." She made me feel so important and truly listened to me. I kept rambling on and on and on. She never left me.
My son who is developmentally delayed lives in Washington State, Kristi took the time to talk with him on the telephone for half an hour explaining over and over what the doctor said, she never rushed my son's conversation. I could not tell my son I was dying and time is running out. Kristi took the hit for me. I will be forever grateful to Kristi for taking that so, so, so difficult conversation off my shoulders.
My parents were in the room when the oncology surgeon said I only have two months left to live. Kristi also supported them as well. My parents have lost my other sister to cancer already and now they are going to lose me. She also got them through the numbness of my only living two more months leaving behind a developmentally delayed son and one just starting out with a new family. I know my boys will be in good hands with my parents, but I'm their daughter, their second daughter to die of cancer.
I can't say enough amazing things about Kristi, my sister also says the same, she made a horrible situation bearable while never leaving my side, or my sister's tears and my parents' distress. Kristi deserves this award because the surgeon came and left in 10 minutes and Kristi stayed with us for as long as we needed her, and boy did we need her. She is a nurse that needs to be recognized for her outstanding role as a patient caregiver and taking the bull by the horns.
I will never forget you and will be looking down on you from heaven or hell. Be yourself because patients need your caring supportive care.