My cousin, J, was a patient until he passed. J was only 38 years old and spent most of his life fighting Wolfram Syndrome. This syndrome led to his blindness, hearing loss, diabetes and multiple other issues. He suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at home, was brought to Pekin Hospital and then transferred to OSF. This is where we met Terri.
Terri was J's nurse the afternoon he was admitted, again on Thursday and Friday and finally the Monday that he passed. From the very beginning, Terri was absolutely wonderful. She was very kind, took time to explain what was happening and what we should expect to see. We were very thankful that Terri explained all of the various equipment and tubes and drips in a way that we all understood. At one point he had seven different infusions going, was cooling and vented. Even as a nurse myself, it was very overwhelming.
Terri cared for J like he was one of her own children, not just a patient. Even though he was unconscious, Terri would talk to him, stroke his arm or pat his hand. You could tell she truly cared and was Living the Mission. Not only did Terri care for J but she helped take care of us or if we had any questions. She offered her own cane to my 89-year-old grandmother to help her get to the bathroom. We truly felt blessed to have Terri with us the day that J was extubated and passed away. Throughout this difficult time, Terri was there to give us hugs, hold our hands and console us. She was truly the perfect person to help us through it all. Her care and compassion toward J and the family was extraordinary and I strongly feel she is deserving of the DAISY Award!