To the Nurses…

Please know that while a political leader chose to make a ludicrous comment, we, the rest of the world are looking at you with gratitude, respect and appreciation.

I’ve never once seen a nurse playing cards. But I have seen…

A nurse care for my dying mother at her last hospital stay. Caring for her with a huge heart, a gentle touch and a compassionate soul.

A nurse care for me in the operating room with heart and passion. Sure the doctors were the ones performing the surgery, but you were there, calming my anxieties. You were there reassuring me that I was in great hands. You told me everything would be ok, and it was.

A nurse hold and care for my infant son as he was rushed to the E.R in anaphylactic shock. You held our son and our entire hearts, while also somehow calming my fears with your skill and knowledge.

A nurse administer chemo to my mother and best friend. I watched as you gave more than medicine. You gave hope. You gave laughs and you turned a treatment into something uplifting.

A nurse care for me after my c-section with patience and a humble spirit. You were there every time I needed something. You assisted me while still allowing me to keep my morale. You helped me when my emotions got the best of me and all I could do was cry. You were there, like a rock, like a counselor, like a friend.

A nurse care for my aging grandfather, always approaching him with kindness and patience. His memory was fading and his needs were great, but you were there. Always. Making his last months and weeks full of dignity and independence.

A nurse wheel my mother off to surgery to remove her cancer. Sure, you were just one of an entire team of professionals, but I remember you because you paid attention. You looked at my mom like the mother and amazing woman she was and not just another patient. You saw her importance and I saw you. I’ve never forgotten that. I never will.

Nurses, we see you. We appreciate you. We admire you.

You are on the frontlines. You are difference makers. You are doing unforgettable work.

Don’t let one woman with irrational thoughts and demeaning comments dim your influence. You are, and continue to be, true lifesavers.

Thank you for your courage, your bravery and your commitment.

xox, Chels (& the rest of the world)