Our floor takes care of pancreatic cancer patients who often have complex surgeries and require ongoing care with repeated admissions. A few weeks ago, one of our pancreatic cancer patients who Steph and our staff have cared for over the past several years went from the ICU to the Palliative Care Unit. Her family sought out Steph to communicate that she was at MCW. Steph went down to the unit to visit with her and her family. The patient communicated to Steph that she felt like a mess and did not feel human. She joked about not having her "face on." Steph took the time to wash her hair and help her apply makeup. A simple act of kindness and love, which showed compassion and provided dignity for a patient and their family, they were able to visit and laugh as the patient's spirits were lifted and she felt beautiful. I would like to mention that this patient had also been an RN at MCW.
Steph is a strong clinician and critical thinker and I know this patient always felt safe in Steph's care. The ability to build trusting relationships exemplifies Steph's kind spirit and compassion for her patients and their families.