September 2020
Mary
Keeme
,
RN
8A- Oncology
Virginia Hospital Center
Mary shared with us that she had previously take care of her this past July and shared stories my mom had shared with her. Going through this dying process is a difficult one and Mary immediately put us at ease.
My mom has been a patient on the oncology floor at Virginia Hospital Center many times in the last 10 years and we have been pleased with every aspect of her care from the doctors, nurses, assistants, cleaning staff, and cafeteria personnel. My mom fell and sustained a devastating head injury and ended up in the ICU. After talking to the ICU doctor we were comfortable with the decision to move her to the oncology floor for end of life care. Mary was my mom's first day nurse after being admitted to the floor in an unresponsive state. Mary shared with us that she had previously take care of her this past July and shared stories my mom had shared with her. Going through this dying process is a difficult one and Mary immediately put us at ease. She talked to my mom as if she were alert and was so kind to her. Mary explained to all our family every procedure and always made sure we understood. The following day my 95-year-old father was sitting in the room with my mom and Mary took the time and initiative to order him lunch. It was such a thoughtful gesture and my father seemed to perk up after eating something. We were all so distraught that we didn't think to eat. Mary took care of my mom the following day and she was exceptional in every aspect of care including interacting with every member of my family coming in and out. I was impressed that she took the time to remember our names. My mom has yet to pass but we feel fortunate to have such a caring nursing staff, but we want Mary recognized for being such an exceptional and empathetic nurse.