My dad was hospitalized for 21 days at the University of Michigan Hospital for Advanced Heart Failure. A decision was made by him and my mom to go home with hospice/home care as his options were very limited. A week after the first predicted discharge date he was approved by the physician for discharge. Everything was ready, he was all packed up, and hooked up to his portable IV pump that he would go home with, and we were just waiting on one thing, medication from the pharmacy. This particular medication was something he had to have to go home and no one had it. Teressa worked diligently trying to find a pharmacy that would be able to next day air this medication so my father could go home. As a nurse and a family member who was trying to keep both my mom and dad from falling apart and to fulfill my dad's last wishes, I knew that Teressa didn't have to do this. She didn't have to stay after and call multiple pharmacies to plead on behalf of my dad and the importance for him to have this medication sent to his house by the next day so that he could still go home.
Throughout his hospital stay, when Teressa was working, she took the time to update me on the plan of care. She never made me feel rushed or like she was too busy to listen. She was always so sincere and compassionate on every interaction I had with her. She patiently answered all the questions I asked and found out the answers from the team to the questions she was unsure of. For her compassion and her extraordinary actions, I want Teressa to know that as a fellow nurse and family member, I appreciate her going above and beyond to make sure my dad could make it home that night. She knew just how important it was to him to be home and she went beyond her job duties to make sure it happened.
As promised, we received this medication the next day as my dad was comfortably relaxing at home. I don't know how many more days my dad has on this earth, but we want Teressa to know she will forever be remembered for the heroic measures she took to get my father home. We never got the chance to thank her for all she did for us, her kindness and dedication, and working so hard behind the scenes was so appreciated. We are forever grateful to you!