May 2020
Summer
Aldridge
,
RN
ICU
Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis
Memphis
,
TN
United States
From the initial interaction with Nurse Summer, I knew my mother was in extraordinary hands. Summer displayed the strong medical knowledge that nurses have, but what made Summer stand out was the compassion and empathy she showed my mom. My mom carries high anxiety and the mask on her face mixed with the pain heightened her anxiety levels, but Summer had confidence within herself that radiated calm and comfort to Mom and the rest of the family. Summer was detailed, explaining in a way we easily understood, offering us comfort. Summer cared for my mom proactively shifting her to prevent her from getting bedsores, made sure Mom had endless ice cups, and even wiped her mouth when there was something stuck on her lips. Summer ensured my mother maintained her dignity. After days in ICU, Mom was transferred to a regular room to live out her last days. Summer hugged my family, comforted my mom, and shared sorrow. Mom passed away soon after, losing her battle to cancer. The care, love, and compassion received from Summer is something I will forever be thankful for. An amazing Mom being cared for by an Extraordinary Nurse!