It is said that in life, every person you meet has the potential to touch and affect your life; and you, theirs. Yesterday was such a day for me. In my day job, I met a remarkable young woman and her husband. Jennifer and Steve O’Neill. Their pleasant demeanor and open personalities are not the only traits making them so spectacular. Their inr love for eachother, while exceptional and beautiful to behold, and quite inspiring, drew me to them. But their story, their struggle, and their positive attitude: these are what piqued my interest and my compassion.

At  first, it was another report, another patient. “You have a young female patient who has had a bilateral mastectomy.” Further information was given as to the particulars of her care; what was necessary to hear in order to provide her with the plan set forth from the physician. I’m not so callous that just a name or just a diagnosis is how I see my patients. But sometimes, a face, a story to match those benign identifiers makes their case all the more special. She never was just, “the mastectomy in 57. ”

But I went about my day. I did my best as her nurse to serve her. Attended to her pain. Held my breath with her as she saw her chest for the first time. (Jennifer, I really did.) Listened as she told and retold her story.  And became amazed at her fortitude.

Near the end of the day she told me about being on a website for cancer patients and their trials and tribulations.Caringbridge.org
Jennifer

Knowing she’d be discharged home before I arrive to my next shift I gave her and received a beautiful hug wishing her well. And this post is my public prayer for her. Keep me informed, Jen, and I’ll watch for you on Caringbridge!

Thank you for touching my life. As I said, you have affected mine. I’m hopeful I help you in yours.

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