While hardly of the same historical importance of Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities, my hospitalization began with echoes of the opening lines of that novel - "It was the best of times; it was the worst of times."

My husband drove me to the Emergency Room at 8:30 on a Saturday morning. My right leg was swollen and bright red. A variety of tests were made, and I was admitted to the hospital. I was frightened and worried. Truly this was one of the "worst of times". I had a serious infection in my right leg.

Merry was the first nurse to care for me. She was soothing and calm, positive and confident. I immediately knew I was in good hands. Never hurried or impatient, she introduced me to a variety of hospital routines: Here's the Call Button - don't hesitate to use it. Call, don't fall was her constant reminder; Here's the way family members can reach you by phone. IV drips were arranged, temperature and blood pressure taken, food ordered and reassurance given to both patient and nervous husband. She anticipated each of my needs, and met them with competence and caring. I was soothed and confident that with Merry's help, I would get well.

I didn't leave the hospital until Wednesday afternoon, but although she was busy with new patients, she took a moment to stop by and offer encouragement. She is far more than a competent professional, she is a concerned human being. She gave comfort and addressed the needs of the whole patient. Thank you.