Audrey, a chronic illness warrior, shares how nurses have played a crucial role in her journey toward well-being and self-care. Their compassion and dedication have been invaluable, especially during her medical procedures, where they stood by her side and guided her through each step. In moments of fear and hesitation, her nurses offered comfort and provided resources to help her feel supported.
Continue reading to learn more about the impact these remarkable healthcare heroes have had on Audrey's life.
A Traumatic Experience Revisited
One of the most memorable and transformative moments in my healthcare journey was when I had to undergo a procedure that had been incredibly traumatic the first time. The fear and anxiety I felt in anticipation of this test were overwhelming. I had been using my own coping skills to prepare for it, but the moment I stepped into the room, those feelings of dread resurfaced. I was overwhelmed with anxiety and scared of reliving the trauma I had experienced previously.
Support from Compassionate Nurses
During the procedure, I was lucky to have three nurses in the room who helped guide me through the process. Their presence made all the difference, as they provided me with resources and comfort to make the situation more manageable. One of the nurses took the time to ask me about my fears, gently encouraging me to explain why I was so hesitant to go through with the procedure. She asked what she could do to help, and immediately responded to my requests without hesitation.
I asked for all female nurses and a warm blanket, and both of those needs were met promptly. As the procedure began, I was reassured that I would be informed every step of the way, so I would understand exactly what was happening inside my body. The nurses communicated clearly, explaining each action as it occurred, which helped me mentally prepare for what was coming next. When the procedure became especially difficult, they offered to hold my hand, a small but powerful gesture of support.
Validation and Healing
The compassion and care I received that day helped me in ways I didn’t anticipate. The trust I built with the nurses during that procedure carried over to the next one I had later that day. More importantly, it allowed me to feel validated in my emotions, both mental and physical. For so long, I had experienced gaslighting and dismissal in the healthcare system, which left me questioning my own feelings. But this time, I felt heard. This validation gave me the space to listen to my body and acknowledge what it was telling me. In turn, this helped me recover and heal from the procedures more effectively.
A Simple Act of Gratitude
If I could express my gratitude to these nurses, I would tell them that their kind words meant more to me than they could ever know. Their actions—however small—made a lasting impact on my healing process. By simply validating my feelings and responding with empathy, they not only helped me in that moment but set me on a path toward healing that I still carry with me today. Their compassionate care gave me the strength to care for myself after these procedures and made a significant difference in my recovery.
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