After a carotid angiogram and a subsequent stroke, I was transferred to Providence Hospital for carotid surgery the next day. I was admitted to ICU, later moved to telemetry and scheduled for surgery 2 days later. I was in surgery for one hour and ten minutes. After a short stay in recovery, I returned to ICU for issues with very high blood pressure and a very low heart rate. I was discharged two days after that. Susan Brazell was my nurse each day in ICU.
All these details are being given to explain what a frightening experience this was for my daughters and me. Two and a half years ago my husband suffered a debilitating stroke and four and a half weeks later he passed away. We shared this story with Susan and her comfort and compassion were beyond measure. She is a kind, loving lady and exemplifies what it is all about to be a nurse. She balances her responsibilities as a charge nurse with her care for her patients in an efficient and professional manner. We laughed. We cried. We bonded. Susan even rolled me down to my car and as we said goodbye, tears were shed. Thank you, Susan, for who you are. Thank you for using the gift God has given you to bless others.