50 y/o female with multiple myeloma and leukemia presents to the ER for a fever… a medical emergency in one receiving chemotherapy due to myelosuppression.
She has been in and out of hospitals to receive chemo and then be readmitted for the side effects of cancer.
I walk into the room and she is diffusing essential oils, she is riding around the hall and her room in her wheelchair, she is cracking jokes, she is laughing, and has the biggest smile on her face, and she asks about everyone’s personal lives when they walk into the room. I have never met someone with as much hope, faith, joy, and someone who as closely resembles Jesus as this precious woman.
She told me that Jesus will put angels in your path and I was one of hers. I can say that Jesus put her as my angel during my past three, challenging shifts.
Covid has brought a much higher acuity census to the caseload and this week has been stressful, challenging, and draining.
Her joy and optimism brought the just needed light into my week. I fortunately was able to sit with her for quite some time as I administered blood transfusions.
The highlight of my entire nursing career thus far was when she asked to go to the main lobby to play the grand piano. I was able to wheel her down in her wheelchair with her IV pole, mask, and lots of hand sanitizer to go sit and play her joyful noise. I couldn’t help but become teary eyed.
Even through everything that she was facing, she continued to minister to others and bring such joy into their lives. If I have half of the faith of this Godly woman, I will be okay.
It is a reminder that even on the toughest days; take a deep breath and trust that God has your back.
Until next shift,
Shania